A Cultural Phenomenon in Madrid
In the 1980s, Madrid became the epicentre of a cultural movement that transformed the nightlife of the city. The bakalao movement, which began to take shape in Valencia, found its home in the Spanish capital around 1988. This phenomenon was characterised not only by its vibrant music but also by an atmosphere filled with excesses and a festive culture that attracted thousands of young people.
The bakalao, as this party style was initially known, combined musical genres such as EBM and New Beat with the rampant use of drugs like ecstasy and speed. Iconic nightclubs such as Planta Baja, Nacional III, and Specka became refuges for those looking to escape the daily grind.
Among the most notable figures of this era was a young man nicknamed Bicho. With his distinctive appearance —average height, shaved head, and bomber jacket— he became a feared and respected figure within the nightlife circuit. Bicho was not only known for his intimidating presence but also for his role as an informal debt collector among party-goers. In an environment where tensions were common due to drug trafficking, he emerged as a key figure in resolving conflicts.
As parties stretched throughout the weekend, many young people began to traffic pills to finance their endless nights. According to anonymous testimonies, up to half of the attendees at these parties sold drugs to stay active for entire days.
Despite the festive atmosphere, the bakalao movement was also marked by violent episodes. Fights between rival groups were frequent, and extortion was part of daily life. Bicho found himself involved in dangerous situations that culminated in fatal confrontations.
The story of Bicho came to a tragic end on October 17, 1995. After a night filled with illicit activities alongside friends, he was chased by the police after attempting to escape in a stolen vehicle. The chase ended abruptly when one of the officers shot at him without warning, resulting in his instant death.
Despite the violent context surrounding his life, those who knew him describe him as charismatic yet problematic: “He wasn’t a bad guy,” some witnesses comment about his contradictory character. His death left an indelible mark on those who lived through that golden yet dangerous era of the Madrid bakalao.
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