The Slovene Final was held on February 27th at the RTVSLO TV Studios in Ljubljana. There were two rounds of voting - firstly an "expert" jury selected the top 2 songs and then the public televoted for their favorite. The eventual winner was Maja Keuc with “Vanilija”.
Maja is on stage with 2 female backing singers and 2 male dancers. Maja is wearing a very draped black dress which is cut very high on one leg, which when the fans start, show her knee high boots and shapely legs! As the song progresses the 2 dancers get more and more annoying. Their dancing does not seem to fully fit the dramatics of the song. They are also dancing in back suits, which also looks strange.
The song sounds like it going to be a very piano-based melodic ballad but soon turns much more powerful and dramatic, getting much more rocky. This type of songs really shows of Maja’s range and power. You can also see in the audience that they are also getting into the song quite a lot. I do feel that although the song works as it is, it would get a lot stronger and reach more people if performed in English and I would be interested to hear such a version.
This is possibly the best Slovenian song for quite awhile but has still some issues to sort out. I think with some decent staging and possibly some fiddling about with languages, they might just get out of the semi-final.
SINGER – Maja Keuc
SONG – Vanilija (Vanilla)
MUSIC – Matjaž Vlašič
WORDS – Urša Vlašič , Boštjan Grabnar
Monday 28 February 2011
SLOVENIA
FYR MACEDONIA
The FYROM Final was held on February 27th at the Universal Hall in Skopje. The winner, Vlatko Ilievski with “Rusinka”, was chosen by televoting (50%) and an "expert" jury (50%).
The winning song is a very typical up-tempo Balkan number with shades of dance and rock music in the backing track. However the singing starts and it is a bit of a disappointment. The verses and choruses are not particularly catchy or memorable. Until 2 minutes in when it literally changes focus and goes all folk Russian (a thetile suggests). There is an accordion, lots of shouting and clapping - totally different. The singer then goes back to the original song but somehow the whole thing seems to make much more sense. Bizarre!
The staging mirrors the song. Vlatki is initially backed by 4 dancers doing slightly Russian inspired moves. There is also the occasional indoor firework! Then a 5th( looking quite drunk and playing an accordion) joins in. Vlatki himself does a lot of jumping and clapping getting the audience to join in. The five do lots of dancing in lines and spinning about. The whole effect looks abut like the dancers behind Alexander Rybak, but not quite as good or organised – yet.
The song needs a lot of work The backing vocals need to be seen to and the whole performance piece needs a lot of organising. Does Vlatki *really* need the guitar either? A typical FYROM fayre, and will get a lot of votes from the Russian bloc.
SINGER – Vlatki Ilievski
SONG – Rusinka (Russian Girl)
MUSIC – Gilgor Koprov, Vladimir Dojcinovski, Vladimir Dojcinovski, Jovan Jovanov WORDS – Gilgor Koprov, Vladimir Dojcinovski, Vladimir Dojcinovski, Jovan Jovanov
The winning song is a very typical up-tempo Balkan number with shades of dance and rock music in the backing track. However the singing starts and it is a bit of a disappointment. The verses and choruses are not particularly catchy or memorable. Until 2 minutes in when it literally changes focus and goes all folk Russian (a thetile suggests). There is an accordion, lots of shouting and clapping - totally different. The singer then goes back to the original song but somehow the whole thing seems to make much more sense. Bizarre!
The staging mirrors the song. Vlatki is initially backed by 4 dancers doing slightly Russian inspired moves. There is also the occasional indoor firework! Then a 5th( looking quite drunk and playing an accordion) joins in. Vlatki himself does a lot of jumping and clapping getting the audience to join in. The five do lots of dancing in lines and spinning about. The whole effect looks abut like the dancers behind Alexander Rybak, but not quite as good or organised – yet.
The song needs a lot of work The backing vocals need to be seen to and the whole performance piece needs a lot of organising. Does Vlatki *really* need the guitar either? A typical FYROM fayre, and will get a lot of votes from the Russian bloc.
SINGER – Vlatki Ilievski
SONG – Rusinka (Russian Girl)
MUSIC – Gilgor Koprov, Vladimir Dojcinovski, Vladimir Dojcinovski, Jovan Jovanov WORDS – Gilgor Koprov, Vladimir Dojcinovski, Vladimir Dojcinovski, Jovan Jovanov
Labels:
2011,
Eurovision,
FYROM,
Macedonia,
Rusinka,
Vlatko Ilievski
Sunday 27 February 2011
SERBIA
The Serbian Final was held on February 26th at the RTS TV Studios in Belgrade. The winner was chosen by SMS voting. This ear three songs have been written especially for the contest, written by the three members of the Kovac Family - Kornelije, Aleksandra and Kristina. All three have written each song individually and chosen the act to sing their song.
The show starts with a recap of last years winning song by Lena, then a review of previous Serbian entries as well as a look back to when the contest was held in Belgrade. Then Maria Serifovic sings the disco version of her winning song “Motlitva”
First up are The Breeze singing Kornelije’s song “Ring Ring Ring” This is a very 60’s song with a lot of influence from the Beatles- but in Serbian XD They areal wearing retro clothing including matching Beatles style wigs and hippy glasses. The song is not bad, the ring repetition is a little boring. Not exactly a memorable or singable song although the visuals are very memorable. However I feel that the 60s gimmick may make people think they are being a joke. It is a fine line.
Next Aleksandra sings her own composition “Idemo dalje” (We’re moving on) This is a very typical slow Balkan dramatic ballad. She stands on her own on the stage and is sporting some tattoo type jewellery on the shoulder of her dress – very nice ! She is singing the song very passionately, verses remind me slightly of “Hello” by Lionel Richie, but in a Eurovision way XD Not a bad effort but I feel the backing track need to be much bigger and fuller to give it much more impact. A better song than the first, but really not memorable or singable.
Finally, Nina sings “Čaroban” (Magical) written by Kristina. This another 60’s inspired number. Nina and her 3 female backing singers are all dressed in mini dresses and have very Mary Quant-esque haircuts and make-up . She also has 2 very active male trumpeters. This feels like a much more put together and professional performance visually. This song does have some kick to it in the fact that it is danceable and clapable to and have a structure that your ear can pick up, even if you don’t speak Serbian. The ending however is a little weak
The SMS lines open up straight away and are open for a whole hour.
During the voting process we go behind the scenes from the past few weeks seeing how the acts and their ‘mentors’ made the songs and the performances to what they are today.
Dado Topić (Croatia 2007) takes the stage followed by a number of female singers taking on some of Aleksadra’s songs. Karolina Gočeva (FYROM 2007/2002) as well as a boy band sing some of Kristina’s songs. Boris Novković (Croatia 2005) sings a Aleksandra song. Jelena Tomašević (Serbia 2008) sings with Kornelije on piano
The lines are now closed !
The votes are revealed – and with well over half the vote is Nina!
SINGER – Nina
SONG – Čaroban (Magical)
MUSIC – Kristina Kovač
WORDS – Kristina Kovač
The show starts with a recap of last years winning song by Lena, then a review of previous Serbian entries as well as a look back to when the contest was held in Belgrade. Then Maria Serifovic sings the disco version of her winning song “Motlitva”
First up are The Breeze singing Kornelije’s song “Ring Ring Ring” This is a very 60’s song with a lot of influence from the Beatles- but in Serbian XD They areal wearing retro clothing including matching Beatles style wigs and hippy glasses. The song is not bad, the ring repetition is a little boring. Not exactly a memorable or singable song although the visuals are very memorable. However I feel that the 60s gimmick may make people think they are being a joke. It is a fine line.
Next Aleksandra sings her own composition “Idemo dalje” (We’re moving on) This is a very typical slow Balkan dramatic ballad. She stands on her own on the stage and is sporting some tattoo type jewellery on the shoulder of her dress – very nice ! She is singing the song very passionately, verses remind me slightly of “Hello” by Lionel Richie, but in a Eurovision way XD Not a bad effort but I feel the backing track need to be much bigger and fuller to give it much more impact. A better song than the first, but really not memorable or singable.
Finally, Nina sings “Čaroban” (Magical) written by Kristina. This another 60’s inspired number. Nina and her 3 female backing singers are all dressed in mini dresses and have very Mary Quant-esque haircuts and make-up . She also has 2 very active male trumpeters. This feels like a much more put together and professional performance visually. This song does have some kick to it in the fact that it is danceable and clapable to and have a structure that your ear can pick up, even if you don’t speak Serbian. The ending however is a little weak
The SMS lines open up straight away and are open for a whole hour.
During the voting process we go behind the scenes from the past few weeks seeing how the acts and their ‘mentors’ made the songs and the performances to what they are today.
Dado Topić (Croatia 2007) takes the stage followed by a number of female singers taking on some of Aleksadra’s songs. Karolina Gočeva (FYROM 2007/2002) as well as a boy band sing some of Kristina’s songs. Boris Novković (Croatia 2005) sings a Aleksandra song. Jelena Tomašević (Serbia 2008) sings with Kornelije on piano
The lines are now closed !
The votes are revealed – and with well over half the vote is Nina!
SINGER – Nina
SONG – Čaroban (Magical)
MUSIC – Kristina Kovač
WORDS – Kristina Kovač
UKRAINE
The Ukrainian Final was held on February 26th at the Savik Shuster Studio in Kiev. Before the final there were 3 semi-finals, however the final itself was not without controversy (seems to be running theme in Ukrainian pre-selections!) Neksi, Armiya and Vera Varlamova withdrew before the final started but during the final, Vitaliy Galay was disqualified for using pre-recorded backing vocals, then Tetyana Vorzheva was disqualified for having 7 people on stage. The winner was chosen by an "expert" jury (45%), SMS voting (45%) & internet voting (10%). However the overall winner was the song “Angel” sing by Mika Newton.
Angel is performed with the singer and 5 backing dancers. She is dressed in a tight white dress, with a flower effect on them. Her male dancers are all wearing wings, like mini Eroses. They also help create the “mis en scene” by moving around slabs of mirrors around the stage. In fairness, I cannot tell you if the mirror effect was any good as the Ukrainian TV director never really let the TV audience have a good look at this view for a suitable length of time. There are also some pyrotechnics during the final chorus
Mika looks very good and sings well too. She really drives out the high notes of the song with a lot of gusto. I feel that almost any song in her hands would be safe. The song she sings is a very predictable ballad. There is no real hook in the tune or the words and is rather forgettable even when you have heard it several times. The song does show off her power and range but I don’t think that this is enough.
After a few good years from Ukraine, this is a bit of a let down in terms of a reasonable song. But I far that it’s poser and ‘friendly neighbours’ will still make it a qualifier, even if it is not deserved
SINGER – Mika Newton
SONG – Angel
MUSIC –
WORDS –
Angel is performed with the singer and 5 backing dancers. She is dressed in a tight white dress, with a flower effect on them. Her male dancers are all wearing wings, like mini Eroses. They also help create the “mis en scene” by moving around slabs of mirrors around the stage. In fairness, I cannot tell you if the mirror effect was any good as the Ukrainian TV director never really let the TV audience have a good look at this view for a suitable length of time. There are also some pyrotechnics during the final chorus
Mika looks very good and sings well too. She really drives out the high notes of the song with a lot of gusto. I feel that almost any song in her hands would be safe. The song she sings is a very predictable ballad. There is no real hook in the tune or the words and is rather forgettable even when you have heard it several times. The song does show off her power and range but I don’t think that this is enough.
After a few good years from Ukraine, this is a bit of a let down in terms of a reasonable song. But I far that it’s poser and ‘friendly neighbours’ will still make it a qualifier, even if it is not deserved
SINGER – Mika Newton
SONG – Angel
MUSIC –
WORDS –
MOLDOVA
The Moldovan final took place on the 26th of February and the winner was chosen by a 50-50 mixture of jury and teletvoting. The winner was Zdob si Zdub with their song “So Lucky”
Now Zdob si Zdub are already known to he Eurovision audience as they became Moldova’s very first entrant backing 2005 with the strange song about grandmas banging drums. This song is just as strange and in some ways just as catchy.
The staging of the song is very individual. The 5 band members are very active n ht stag and some are also wearing huge furry pointed hats. A minute into a song a young lady in white comes on playing a horn whilst on a unicycle (?) She then interacts with the singer and also cycles around the stage. During the different parts of the song the audience seems to go mad and is lapping up the insaneness on stage. I think that many of the neighbouring Balkan nations might appreciate the song most others may see it as too much of a joke.
The song s a real mishmash of styles. There are slow parts, chanted bits, hyper brass bits as well as rocky parts. To be honest there is no real verse/chorus to the song however, very cleverly, the title ”So Lucky” is chanted every other line, like a kind of call and response idea, so even if you don’t get the song, you certainly remember its name. It is a very Balkan type of song and the turbo-brass part n the middle is a really strange wake up call to the audience. Compared to their 2005 song it is nowhere near as good or catchy but it does have a very good hook and is not forgettable.
Another odd ball entry by the Moldovans, and I think they will need to use the time between now and Düsseldorf to fine tune the act and make it memorable without coming across cheesy or too much of a joke.
SINGER – Zdob si Zdub
SONG – So Lucky
MUSIC –
WORDS –
Now Zdob si Zdub are already known to he Eurovision audience as they became Moldova’s very first entrant backing 2005 with the strange song about grandmas banging drums. This song is just as strange and in some ways just as catchy.
The staging of the song is very individual. The 5 band members are very active n ht stag and some are also wearing huge furry pointed hats. A minute into a song a young lady in white comes on playing a horn whilst on a unicycle (?) She then interacts with the singer and also cycles around the stage. During the different parts of the song the audience seems to go mad and is lapping up the insaneness on stage. I think that many of the neighbouring Balkan nations might appreciate the song most others may see it as too much of a joke.
The song s a real mishmash of styles. There are slow parts, chanted bits, hyper brass bits as well as rocky parts. To be honest there is no real verse/chorus to the song however, very cleverly, the title ”So Lucky” is chanted every other line, like a kind of call and response idea, so even if you don’t get the song, you certainly remember its name. It is a very Balkan type of song and the turbo-brass part n the middle is a really strange wake up call to the audience. Compared to their 2005 song it is nowhere near as good or catchy but it does have a very good hook and is not forgettable.
Another odd ball entry by the Moldovans, and I think they will need to use the time between now and Düsseldorf to fine tune the act and make it memorable without coming across cheesy or too much of a joke.
SINGER – Zdob si Zdub
SONG – So Lucky
MUSIC –
WORDS –
LATVIA
The Latvian Final will be held on February 26th at the Juras Varti Theatre House in Ventspils. Before the final there were three semi-finals. The winner was be chosen in two rounds of voting , one to selects a top three and then a ‘superfinal’ to select a winner. Voting was an equal jury/televote split. The winner was Musiqq with "Angel In Disguise"
Surprisingly, I really, really like this, but I know that this is certainly not everybody’s cup of tea. Musiqq are two guys backed up with 2 male and 2 female backing singers. At the start they are both sat on stools - one sings the other plays the guitar. It all seems too predictable and normal. During the second verse the singer gets up and starts to be more engaging with the audience. His dancing is a little bit stiff and ‘white boy’ but he seems really into what he is doing. Then at the end of the second chorus the guitar player stands up to join him – AND STARTS RAPPING! The audience in the area seems to really take to this and the audience also seems really engaged with the song and performers.
The song itself is a kind of rocky pop song, which starts off quite slow and grows in the performance. The singers voice is actually quite rocky and has a nice rough edge to it and he also very good diction. The backing singers really add to the punch of the song. The chorus has a couple of hooks to it and you can find yourself singing it after just one listen. The rap is actually quite well though out and does fit in with the song and not just a gimmick.
The boys have now got a couple of months to perfect this song and although I feel the song is very good already, some time and effort could be used to make the visual performance much more professional and memorable. I’m not quite sure I like the outfits and they could be wearing something a little more contemporary and youthful. I don’t think they have to do much but anything to make the song stand out even more would really help.
SINGER – Musiqq
SONG – Angel In Disguise
MUSIC – Marats Ogļezņevs
WORDS – Marats Ogļezņevs
Surprisingly, I really, really like this, but I know that this is certainly not everybody’s cup of tea. Musiqq are two guys backed up with 2 male and 2 female backing singers. At the start they are both sat on stools - one sings the other plays the guitar. It all seems too predictable and normal. During the second verse the singer gets up and starts to be more engaging with the audience. His dancing is a little bit stiff and ‘white boy’ but he seems really into what he is doing. Then at the end of the second chorus the guitar player stands up to join him – AND STARTS RAPPING! The audience in the area seems to really take to this and the audience also seems really engaged with the song and performers.
The song itself is a kind of rocky pop song, which starts off quite slow and grows in the performance. The singers voice is actually quite rocky and has a nice rough edge to it and he also very good diction. The backing singers really add to the punch of the song. The chorus has a couple of hooks to it and you can find yourself singing it after just one listen. The rap is actually quite well though out and does fit in with the song and not just a gimmick.
The boys have now got a couple of months to perfect this song and although I feel the song is very good already, some time and effort could be used to make the visual performance much more professional and memorable. I’m not quite sure I like the outfits and they could be wearing something a little more contemporary and youthful. I don’t think they have to do much but anything to make the song stand out even more would really help.
SINGER – Musiqq
SONG – Angel In Disguise
MUSIC – Marats Ogļezņevs
WORDS – Marats Ogļezņevs
ESTONIA
The Estonian Final was hed on February 26th at the Nokia Concert Hall in Tallinn. Previous to the final there were 2 semi-finals. The eventual winner was chosen by a 50-50 mix of jury and televote and was Getter Jaani singing “Rockerfeller Street”
This song is very interesting entry. It is a real performance number with a lot visually going on. The stage has lots of architectural boxes with the singers and dancers use to good effect, as well as some props. There is lots of marching around lots of dancing and gesturing. Not a moment seems to go by when they are just standing still doing very little. Getter is wearing the strangest dress. It seeps to be a dress made up of left over multicoloured hankies. Although it does contrast well to the dark dressed dancers it really doesn’t say very much about the song and she could do with something a bit more classic.
The song itself is a song of two halves. The verses and bridge parts are much more interesting to listen to than the chorus. The backing track during the verses is very unusual- sounding almost like something Bjork might have made when messing about with micro beats. This is then a very good contracts when entering the bridge phase as it them builds up and uses some excellent use of drum beats to accent the words she is singing. When the song goes into the chorus it feels a little bit cheesy and a little bit predicatable, which is a bit of a shame.
I can see what they are trying to do with this song but it is not quite there yet. Unfortunately I don't see this one getting very far.
SINGER – Getter Jaani
SONG – Rockerfeller Street
MUSIC – Sven Lõhmus
WORDS – Sven Lõhmus
This song is very interesting entry. It is a real performance number with a lot visually going on. The stage has lots of architectural boxes with the singers and dancers use to good effect, as well as some props. There is lots of marching around lots of dancing and gesturing. Not a moment seems to go by when they are just standing still doing very little. Getter is wearing the strangest dress. It seeps to be a dress made up of left over multicoloured hankies. Although it does contrast well to the dark dressed dancers it really doesn’t say very much about the song and she could do with something a bit more classic.
The song itself is a song of two halves. The verses and bridge parts are much more interesting to listen to than the chorus. The backing track during the verses is very unusual- sounding almost like something Bjork might have made when messing about with micro beats. This is then a very good contracts when entering the bridge phase as it them builds up and uses some excellent use of drum beats to accent the words she is singing. When the song goes into the chorus it feels a little bit cheesy and a little bit predicatable, which is a bit of a shame.
I can see what they are trying to do with this song but it is not quite there yet. Unfortunately I don't see this one getting very far.
SINGER – Getter Jaani
SONG – Rockerfeller Street
MUSIC – Sven Lõhmus
WORDS – Sven Lõhmus
Labels:
2011,
Estonia,
Eurovision,
Getter Jaani,
Rockerfeller Street
DENMARK
The Danish Final was held on February 26th at the Ballerup Super Arena, Finding a winner was a complicated affair – with 3 rounds of voting! The top4 was selected by a on 50-50 Jury/SMS voting procedure. Round 2 had the songs competing in pairs, the winners of each pair selected by public vote then a final ‘superfinal’ with 2 songs competing, chosen only by public vote. The winning song was “New Tomorrow” performed by the band A Friend In London
This is a slow indie style rock song. The song sounds quite familiar and reminds me of lots of other songs, which I guess can only be a good thing. The verses are more chanted whilst the chorus is much slower and sung properly. The chorus is quite memorable and is singable. I am actually surprised as to how quickly I found myself humming and singing along to the tune as well and being able to hum it when the track was not playing.
The styling of this track is quite static. The four band members (drummer, 2 guitarists and a guitarist/singer) are quite static. Saying that, the song is not a real one four jumping up and down to or adding 2 extra dancers. Half way through the track giant balloons are released on top of the audience which really complements the black and white lighting effects - but would this really be a practical addition for Eurovision?
I think this is a very welcome diversion for Denmark and Eurovision and I really hope it does well. I don’t think it is a winner but I hope it does well in its semi-final.
SINGER – A Friend in London
SONG – New Tomorrow
MUSIC – Lise Cabble, Jakob Glæsner.
WORDS – Lise Cabble, Jakob Glæsner.
This is a slow indie style rock song. The song sounds quite familiar and reminds me of lots of other songs, which I guess can only be a good thing. The verses are more chanted whilst the chorus is much slower and sung properly. The chorus is quite memorable and is singable. I am actually surprised as to how quickly I found myself humming and singing along to the tune as well and being able to hum it when the track was not playing.
The styling of this track is quite static. The four band members (drummer, 2 guitarists and a guitarist/singer) are quite static. Saying that, the song is not a real one four jumping up and down to or adding 2 extra dancers. Half way through the track giant balloons are released on top of the audience which really complements the black and white lighting effects - but would this really be a practical addition for Eurovision?
I think this is a very welcome diversion for Denmark and Eurovision and I really hope it does well. I don’t think it is a winner but I hope it does well in its semi-final.
SINGER – A Friend in London
SONG – New Tomorrow
MUSIC – Lise Cabble, Jakob Glæsner.
WORDS – Lise Cabble, Jakob Glæsner.
Labels:
2011,
A Friend In London,
Denmark,
Eurovision,
New Tomorrow
Saturday 26 February 2011
AUSTRIA
The ORF Studios in Vienna hosted the Eurovision pre-selection on the 25th February. After quite an extensive selection process involving web voting and a semi-final involving Radio Ö3, 10 songs made the final. After a first round of voting, three songs progressed to the super final. After extra time for voting the eventual winner of the ticket to Düsseldorf is “The secret is love” sung by Nadine Bieler.
Nadine stands in the stage alone in a spotlight. Visually, she looks not to dissimilar to the Albanian entrant, Aurela Gaçe, and seems to be styled in a very similar way. She also seems to be wearing a wig, which kind of suits her but looks a bit lopsided (let’s just say I hope it is a wig!) Later, revealed behind her are 5 backing singers, who come in during the gospel part of the song. Although the stagingof the song is a little sprace, I feel that this actually suits the song and the meaning of the song.
This song starts of with Nadine singing by her self acapella which in itself is very brave. Slowly the music comes in before the first chorus. The music builds throughout the song and eventually becomes quite a dramatic ballad. The song itself is OK, the gospel/bridge parts are probably the most memorable parts but it is not a song you could sing to yourself very easily. One could also say that the lyrics are a little on the cheesy side but I also think that this song will be a very big hit with the national juries. Saying this she does – by a very long way - have one of the best voices of this years Eurovision up to now.
SINGER – Nadine Beiler
SONG – The Secret Is Love
MUSIC –
WORDS –
Nadine stands in the stage alone in a spotlight. Visually, she looks not to dissimilar to the Albanian entrant, Aurela Gaçe, and seems to be styled in a very similar way. She also seems to be wearing a wig, which kind of suits her but looks a bit lopsided (let’s just say I hope it is a wig!) Later, revealed behind her are 5 backing singers, who come in during the gospel part of the song. Although the stagingof the song is a little sprace, I feel that this actually suits the song and the meaning of the song.
This song starts of with Nadine singing by her self acapella which in itself is very brave. Slowly the music comes in before the first chorus. The music builds throughout the song and eventually becomes quite a dramatic ballad. The song itself is OK, the gospel/bridge parts are probably the most memorable parts but it is not a song you could sing to yourself very easily. One could also say that the lyrics are a little on the cheesy side but I also think that this song will be a very big hit with the national juries. Saying this she does – by a very long way - have one of the best voices of this years Eurovision up to now.
SINGER – Nadine Beiler
SONG – The Secret Is Love
MUSIC –
WORDS –
Labels:
2011,
Austria,
Eurovision,
Nadine Beiler,
The Sscret Is Love
Friday 25 February 2011
TURKEY
The Turkish song was presented on the 25th February during a televised press conference. As was announced some time ago, rock band Yüksek Sadakat had been internally selected by TRT and the song they will be singing is “Live It Up”
The song is disco type rock song with a very strong drum beat and guitar riff. The verses are not that memorable but the choruses have a good clapable beat with a nice string section. I found myself singing the tune of “All day and all of the night” by the Kinks through out most of the song. Although the song is called “Live it up” – that phrases is not always noticeable in the chorus. Nearer the end there is a frankly pointless use of Turkish drums and percussion – which I think is just there to remind people this is the Turkish song.
The presentation of the song is very plain. The singer is I the middle of the stage with two guitarists a keyboard player and a drummer. They five of them basically stay quite static for the whole performance which is very unmemorable. It needs to more movement and colour and possibly will need some more engaging with the audience in the area and the audience at home.
After a run of some very good (if not always deserved results) this song is very disappointing and should not get out of the semi-final on merit.
SINGER – Yüksek Sadakat
SONG – Live It Up
MUSIC – Kutlu Özmakinacı
WORDS – Ergün Arsal
The song is disco type rock song with a very strong drum beat and guitar riff. The verses are not that memorable but the choruses have a good clapable beat with a nice string section. I found myself singing the tune of “All day and all of the night” by the Kinks through out most of the song. Although the song is called “Live it up” – that phrases is not always noticeable in the chorus. Nearer the end there is a frankly pointless use of Turkish drums and percussion – which I think is just there to remind people this is the Turkish song.
The presentation of the song is very plain. The singer is I the middle of the stage with two guitarists a keyboard player and a drummer. They five of them basically stay quite static for the whole performance which is very unmemorable. It needs to more movement and colour and possibly will need some more engaging with the audience in the area and the audience at home.
After a run of some very good (if not always deserved results) this song is very disappointing and should not get out of the semi-final on merit.
SINGER – Yüksek Sadakat
SONG – Live It Up
MUSIC – Kutlu Özmakinacı
WORDS – Ergün Arsal
LITHUANIA
The Lithuanian final took place on the 24th February in Vilnius. 13 songs were promoted into the final after a semi-final and online wildacrd voting. The songs were presented then voted on by the public. The top 3 went through to the Superfinal and judged by an expert jury. The song chosen for Düsseldorf is “C’est Ma Vie” by Evelina Sašenko.
This is a very slow dramatic ballad, if not a little old fashioned. The verses are all in English, whilst the choruses are in a mixture of French and English. Eveline is joined only by a pianist on stage; the lighting is very sparse and moody, which suits the style of song. To be honest this is more the type of song that would not feel out of place in a musical, rather than on the Eurovision stage. The song has little edge or hook and is not very memorable at all. The ending of the song is also a little stank and pointless. Giving her some due, Eveline’s voice is very strong although she has to really push to get the high notes. Her accent is not too bad and singing in English and French may get here a few extra votes.
Eveline is wearing the most strange dress. The top half is a dark brown with a light brown flowery ruffle on her shoulder but the bottom half seems to be a tight ankle length dress with a see-through light brown netted underskirt on top. It looks very bizarre. I do hope she wares something a little more suitable as this will with the Barbra Dex award for worst outfit EASILY.
SINGER – Evelina Sašenko
SONG – C’est Ma Vie (It’s My Life)
MUSIC – Paulius Zdanavičius
WORDS – Andrius Kairys
This is a very slow dramatic ballad, if not a little old fashioned. The verses are all in English, whilst the choruses are in a mixture of French and English. Eveline is joined only by a pianist on stage; the lighting is very sparse and moody, which suits the style of song. To be honest this is more the type of song that would not feel out of place in a musical, rather than on the Eurovision stage. The song has little edge or hook and is not very memorable at all. The ending of the song is also a little stank and pointless. Giving her some due, Eveline’s voice is very strong although she has to really push to get the high notes. Her accent is not too bad and singing in English and French may get here a few extra votes.
Eveline is wearing the most strange dress. The top half is a dark brown with a light brown flowery ruffle on her shoulder but the bottom half seems to be a tight ankle length dress with a see-through light brown netted underskirt on top. It looks very bizarre. I do hope she wares something a little more suitable as this will with the Barbra Dex award for worst outfit EASILY.
SINGER – Evelina Sašenko
SONG – C’est Ma Vie (It’s My Life)
MUSIC – Paulius Zdanavičius
WORDS – Andrius Kairys
Labels:
2011,
C'est Ma Vie,
Eurovision,
Evelina Sašenko,
Lithuania
Thursday 24 February 2011
BULGARIA
The Bulgarian final took place o the 23rd February at the National Palace of Culture in Sofia. 19 acts and songs were in the final, which was won by Poli Genova singing the songs “Na Inat” In fact she won the final gaining a maximum 12 points from both the jury and public televote.
“Na Inat” is a pop-rock song which starts out quite quiet. She starts on the floor and then as it gets to the chorus she is on here feet. Behind her are two backing singers playing instruments as well as a pianist and guitarist. She moves about the stage well and interacts with her band. The styling of the song needs a little tweaking and I am not sure the singers o the chairs work. Her voice is not bad and the song certainly suits and shows off her range. The songs and its presentation reminds me quite a lot of Pink – and Poli certainly looks a lot like her.
I would be very, very interested to know if an English version of this song will be made, or even presented at Eurovision as I feel the song would be greatly improved. An English version of this I think would be a massive hit and would be a song easily played on the radio throughout Europe. The song is quite catchy and is definitely something a bit different for Eurovision, especially with a female singer. Someof the more rock-influenced countries may like this a lot
SINGER – Poli Genova
SONG – Na Inat (In defiance)
MUSIC – Poli Genova, Sebastian Arman, Boris Milanov, David Bronner
WORDS – Poli Genova, Sebastian Arman, Boris Milanov, David Bronner
Tuesday 22 February 2011
BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA
The 21st February was the date of when the Bosnian entry for Eurovision was finally be presented. The Bosnia-Herzegovina entry, as the previous 6 years, was an internally selected by BHRT. Back in December, it was announced that Dino Merlin was to take the stage once more at Eurovision. Dino Merlin wrote the first ever independent Bosnia-Herzegovina entry in 1993 and then in 1999 he performed his song “Putnici” with Beatrice where they finished 7th.
During the presentation Dino Merlin duets again with Beatrice with “Putnici” and she sings one of her own new songs. Later, the floor is taken my Jalisse, the last Italian entryin1997. They sing wonderfully, and look very different now! They wish the best to Raphael and Italy in this year’s contest. He is then joined by Mustafa Sandal who sings one of Dino’s songs in Turkish.
Finally we get to the song “Love In Rewind”. It is a mid-tempo number that starts of quite small but the song gros by the involvement of the instruments and backing singers. The song has Balkan undertones but are very subtle in the big booming drum beats and the occasional brass. There is a constant drum and bass line which makes the song not only memorable but catchy too. The chorus is a little weak but the parts between the choruses and verses are much more memorable. The ending is quite strong builds up to the very definate ending. The layout of the performance is quite interesting there are 4 other singers/instrumentalists on stage and an acrobat who climbs up and down the sheets. The piece looks good, if not a little over the top, and they whole thing looks quite fun.
It is a slight surprise that the song is not in Bosnian. Dino’s English is not exactly perfect and does deter slightly from the song and the tune. Many of Bosnia’s most successful songs have been in the local tongue, including Dino’s previous two entries. My main concern is that the song was mimed to. I don’t think the song is that hard to sing but I would be very interested to know how bad his accent is live and also how good (or bad) his backing singers are, and they do have a very active presence on the song.
SINGER – Dino Merlin
SONG – Love in Rewind
MUSIC – Dino Merlin
WORDS – Dino Merlin
During the presentation Dino Merlin duets again with Beatrice with “Putnici” and she sings one of her own new songs. Later, the floor is taken my Jalisse, the last Italian entryin1997. They sing wonderfully, and look very different now! They wish the best to Raphael and Italy in this year’s contest. He is then joined by Mustafa Sandal who sings one of Dino’s songs in Turkish.
Finally we get to the song “Love In Rewind”. It is a mid-tempo number that starts of quite small but the song gros by the involvement of the instruments and backing singers. The song has Balkan undertones but are very subtle in the big booming drum beats and the occasional brass. There is a constant drum and bass line which makes the song not only memorable but catchy too. The chorus is a little weak but the parts between the choruses and verses are much more memorable. The ending is quite strong builds up to the very definate ending. The layout of the performance is quite interesting there are 4 other singers/instrumentalists on stage and an acrobat who climbs up and down the sheets. The piece looks good, if not a little over the top, and they whole thing looks quite fun.
It is a slight surprise that the song is not in Bosnian. Dino’s English is not exactly perfect and does deter slightly from the song and the tune. Many of Bosnia’s most successful songs have been in the local tongue, including Dino’s previous two entries. My main concern is that the song was mimed to. I don’t think the song is that hard to sing but I would be very interested to know how bad his accent is live and also how good (or bad) his backing singers are, and they do have a very active presence on the song.
SINGER – Dino Merlin
SONG – Love in Rewind
MUSIC – Dino Merlin
WORDS – Dino Merlin
Labels:
2011,
Bosnia-Herzegovina,
Dino Merlin,
Eurovision,
Love In Rewind
Sunday 20 February 2011
ITALY
The Italian act for Eurovision was chosen as part of the annual San Remo Festival at the Ariston Theatre, whose final was on the 19th February.
The entry for Eurovision was chosen by a special jury from the songs in the final, so the song that won San Remo would not necessarily be the song selected for Eurovision.
The Eurovision entry chosen was “Follia d'amore” sung and written by Raphael Gualazzi. He had also won the Mia Martini critics award with this performance and song and most importantly he won the Televote for the Newcomers section of this year’s San Remo, meaning that he has the jury's and the public's support.
The song is a laid back jazzy number in the style of Jamie Cullum or Michael Buble. The song is very classy and feels very well thought out and professional and the song grows as it progresses. Raphael is quite a good singer, although his performance style is very insular it is one of the songs that immediately does not feel catchy but does feel familiar. The final 30 seconds is quite epic and makes the ending quite spectacular. The addition of the trumpeter at the side is very clever. A concern I do have it that the song is about 40 second over the Eurovision time limit. I would be very interested to hear what they do to try and shorten the song. There is quite a long instrumental part, which shows off Raphael’s piano playing skills but apart from that there is very little I would like to see be taken out.
There are two further things one must take into account, which can be linked together.
Firstly, San Remo has the advantage of a live orchestra, which Eurovision does not. The orchestra also helps to engage the audience and make the performance richer in sound. It will be interesting to hear who the backing track sounds like.
Secondly, there currently only 2 people on stage. I can image the addition of some ‘big band members’ or even possibly some dancers. Raphael, although playing the piano, seems to be a very inward performer and the song could be helped with adding some more performance qualities to it.
A very classy return by Italy but is it worthy of any points?
SINGER – Raphael Gualazzi
SONG – Follia d’amore (Madness of Love)
MUSIC – Raphael Gualazzi
WORDS - Raphael Gualazzi
The entry for Eurovision was chosen by a special jury from the songs in the final, so the song that won San Remo would not necessarily be the song selected for Eurovision.
The Eurovision entry chosen was “Follia d'amore” sung and written by Raphael Gualazzi. He had also won the Mia Martini critics award with this performance and song and most importantly he won the Televote for the Newcomers section of this year’s San Remo, meaning that he has the jury's and the public's support.
The song is a laid back jazzy number in the style of Jamie Cullum or Michael Buble. The song is very classy and feels very well thought out and professional and the song grows as it progresses. Raphael is quite a good singer, although his performance style is very insular it is one of the songs that immediately does not feel catchy but does feel familiar. The final 30 seconds is quite epic and makes the ending quite spectacular. The addition of the trumpeter at the side is very clever. A concern I do have it that the song is about 40 second over the Eurovision time limit. I would be very interested to hear what they do to try and shorten the song. There is quite a long instrumental part, which shows off Raphael’s piano playing skills but apart from that there is very little I would like to see be taken out.
There are two further things one must take into account, which can be linked together.
Firstly, San Remo has the advantage of a live orchestra, which Eurovision does not. The orchestra also helps to engage the audience and make the performance richer in sound. It will be interesting to hear who the backing track sounds like.
Secondly, there currently only 2 people on stage. I can image the addition of some ‘big band members’ or even possibly some dancers. Raphael, although playing the piano, seems to be a very inward performer and the song could be helped with adding some more performance qualities to it.
A very classy return by Italy but is it worthy of any points?
SINGER – Raphael Gualazzi
SONG – Follia d’amore (Madness of Love)
MUSIC – Raphael Gualazzi
WORDS - Raphael Gualazzi
Labels:
2011,
Eurovision,
Follia d'amore,
Italy,
Raphael Gualazzi
Saturday 19 February 2011
GEORGIA
The Georgian final took place on the 19th February in Tblisi
The seven act final was won by the group Eldrine performing “One More Day”
The song is very unusual for Eurovision. The whole style of the performance seems to encompass lots of genres of music- some rock, some electronica, even a little bit of RnB, as well as rap.
Five members of the group play instruments whilst a female is the main singer. One could say that this mish-mash of styles means that there will be a part for everyone to like, others may say it is too confusing and lacking flow. The song is reminiscent of something Limp Bizkit, Evanescence or Paramore might produce. A band member joins in half way through and raps with the main singer. The main singer has to hit a lot of very high notes in the chorus and although she gets through it once the next few times she is very badly straining and eventually has to change down a key and alter the tune. She looks very uncomfortable during this part.
There is almost zero performance value to the song, apart from the rapping. The female singer just stands and sings. This song will need to engage much, much more with the audience at home to get any more votes at all. As there are 6 in the band ,they cannot add any more singers or dancers so they are going to have to set the band in such a way, or give the singer suitable choreography to make the performance come alive.
SINGER – Eldrine
SONG – OneMore Day
MUSIC – Beso Tsikhelashvili
WORDS - Mikheil Chelidze, DJ Rock
The seven act final was won by the group Eldrine performing “One More Day”
The song is very unusual for Eurovision. The whole style of the performance seems to encompass lots of genres of music- some rock, some electronica, even a little bit of RnB, as well as rap.
Five members of the group play instruments whilst a female is the main singer. One could say that this mish-mash of styles means that there will be a part for everyone to like, others may say it is too confusing and lacking flow. The song is reminiscent of something Limp Bizkit, Evanescence or Paramore might produce. A band member joins in half way through and raps with the main singer. The main singer has to hit a lot of very high notes in the chorus and although she gets through it once the next few times she is very badly straining and eventually has to change down a key and alter the tune. She looks very uncomfortable during this part.
There is almost zero performance value to the song, apart from the rapping. The female singer just stands and sings. This song will need to engage much, much more with the audience at home to get any more votes at all. As there are 6 in the band ,they cannot add any more singers or dancers so they are going to have to set the band in such a way, or give the singer suitable choreography to make the performance come alive.
SINGER – Eldrine
SONG – OneMore Day
MUSIC – Beso Tsikhelashvili
WORDS - Mikheil Chelidze, DJ Rock
SPAIN
The Spanish final took place on the 18th February and filmed at Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona. There have been 2 semi-finals previous to the final and three acts that have won places in the final are solo singers Melissa and Lucia Perez and boy band Auryn. They will sing 3 songs each will be whittled down to one each
Melissa begins by singing “Eos” a quite atmospheric ballad with lots of tribal drumming. The dong becomes more rock influenced at it progresses. Melissa sings the song well and it has a key change too.
Auryn sing “Evangeline” They are seated on stools, reminiscent of Westlife. The song has a very 80’s eurovision ballad feel to it. The boys cope very well with all the different melodies to the song. Themiddle bridge part is quite catchy.
Lucia Perez joins the stage with “Que me quiten me lo bailao” This is a little more Spanish that the songe before. She is joined by some backing singers/dancers. The songs shows of the very top of her range with is interesting to listen to.
A short break in the proceedings as Sole Ginenez (one of the jury) takes the stage.
Melissa sings “Sueños Rotos” a modern sounding ballad. The verses of this song are very RnB influences which she sings very well. The chorus is not as strong and the tune is a little weak and her voice cannot quite the high notes
Auryn sing “El sol Brillara” The boys take it in turn sings part of the song separately. Not sure how much of a good idea this is. They sound stronger together in the chorus. Sounds like a very cheesy song.
Lucia returns to sing “Abrazame” This is a low key ballad with Spanish tones. It sounds a little like “Non ho l'età” The chorus also have interesting arrangement in the backing track. Sounds like an audience favourite.
Melissa now sings her final song “Diamonds” Sounds a bit Swedish/ABBA to me. Nice to see some disco in the final. She is interacting more with the dancers on this one. Shame her English accent is not that good.
Auyin sing the last of their songs “Volver” a ballad. They seem to suit this style of song much better but not quite perfect. The backing track for this needs to be much richer and louder as it can barely be heard over the 5 boys. A good song though.
“C’est le vie! It’s all right!” is Lucia Perez’s last song. This is more of a jazzy cabaret type number with extensive choreography with chairs.. The song is quite catchy and sounds interesting however it needs a bit more excitement during the number.
The UK’s entry Blue take the stage and sing “Breathe Easy”. Thy also appear to be singing live and seem actually quite impressive (especially compared to Auryn) and get a very warm applause and appreciation fro the audience.
The jury then votes on each of Melissa’s songs to go through to the televote –
Eos - 14
Sueños rotos - 11
Diamonds - 5
So Melissa’s song “Eos” will be voted on by the public
The jury then votes on each of Auryn’s songs to go through to the televote –
Evangeline - 9
El Sol Brillara- 6
Volver - 15
So Auryna’s song “Volver” will be voted on by the public
The jury then votes on each of Lucia Perez’s songs to go through to the televote –
Que me quiten me lo bailao - 12
Abrazame - 12
C’est le vie! It’s all right! - 5
After some confusion because of the tied votes the jury deliberates again and chooses “Que me quiten me lo bailao” to be voted on by the public
The numbers are then shown and the vote begins !
Melissa returns to sing ”Eos” The song in certainly dramatic and the chorus is definitely memorable. She sings the song powerfully and the audience is responding well throughout the song. Sounds like something Greece or Cyprus would send.
Auryn return to sing “Volver” The song was certainly the right choice for the final for the group. Alough a good song, as it progresses you realise this is not a very Eurovision song and is missing something in the performance quality of the song.
Lucia Perez joins the stage with “Que me quiten me lo bailao” This has a very light-hearted summer vibe to it. Definitely the most ‘Spanish’ of the 3 finalists. Needs a bigger punch during the chorus though.
Daniel Diges, last years representative, sings “Angel” a Spanish version of the Robbie Williams hit.
Then, Albert Hammond (one of the jury) sings a song.
Lines are closed and votes are in
And the winner is … Lucia Perez !
SINGER – Lucia Perez
SONG – Que me quiten me lo bailao (Nobody can take away the good times I've had)
MUSIC – Rafael Artesero Herrero
WORDS - Rafael Artesero Herrero
Melissa begins by singing “Eos” a quite atmospheric ballad with lots of tribal drumming. The dong becomes more rock influenced at it progresses. Melissa sings the song well and it has a key change too.
Auryn sing “Evangeline” They are seated on stools, reminiscent of Westlife. The song has a very 80’s eurovision ballad feel to it. The boys cope very well with all the different melodies to the song. Themiddle bridge part is quite catchy.
Lucia Perez joins the stage with “Que me quiten me lo bailao” This is a little more Spanish that the songe before. She is joined by some backing singers/dancers. The songs shows of the very top of her range with is interesting to listen to.
A short break in the proceedings as Sole Ginenez (one of the jury) takes the stage.
Melissa sings “Sueños Rotos” a modern sounding ballad. The verses of this song are very RnB influences which she sings very well. The chorus is not as strong and the tune is a little weak and her voice cannot quite the high notes
Auryn sing “El sol Brillara” The boys take it in turn sings part of the song separately. Not sure how much of a good idea this is. They sound stronger together in the chorus. Sounds like a very cheesy song.
Lucia returns to sing “Abrazame” This is a low key ballad with Spanish tones. It sounds a little like “Non ho l'età” The chorus also have interesting arrangement in the backing track. Sounds like an audience favourite.
Melissa now sings her final song “Diamonds” Sounds a bit Swedish/ABBA to me. Nice to see some disco in the final. She is interacting more with the dancers on this one. Shame her English accent is not that good.
Auyin sing the last of their songs “Volver” a ballad. They seem to suit this style of song much better but not quite perfect. The backing track for this needs to be much richer and louder as it can barely be heard over the 5 boys. A good song though.
“C’est le vie! It’s all right!” is Lucia Perez’s last song. This is more of a jazzy cabaret type number with extensive choreography with chairs.. The song is quite catchy and sounds interesting however it needs a bit more excitement during the number.
The UK’s entry Blue take the stage and sing “Breathe Easy”. Thy also appear to be singing live and seem actually quite impressive (especially compared to Auryn) and get a very warm applause and appreciation fro the audience.
The jury then votes on each of Melissa’s songs to go through to the televote –
Eos - 14
Sueños rotos - 11
Diamonds - 5
So Melissa’s song “Eos” will be voted on by the public
The jury then votes on each of Auryn’s songs to go through to the televote –
Evangeline - 9
El Sol Brillara- 6
Volver - 15
So Auryna’s song “Volver” will be voted on by the public
The jury then votes on each of Lucia Perez’s songs to go through to the televote –
Que me quiten me lo bailao - 12
Abrazame - 12
C’est le vie! It’s all right! - 5
After some confusion because of the tied votes the jury deliberates again and chooses “Que me quiten me lo bailao” to be voted on by the public
The numbers are then shown and the vote begins !
Melissa returns to sing ”Eos” The song in certainly dramatic and the chorus is definitely memorable. She sings the song powerfully and the audience is responding well throughout the song. Sounds like something Greece or Cyprus would send.
Auryn return to sing “Volver” The song was certainly the right choice for the final for the group. Alough a good song, as it progresses you realise this is not a very Eurovision song and is missing something in the performance quality of the song.
Lucia Perez joins the stage with “Que me quiten me lo bailao” This has a very light-hearted summer vibe to it. Definitely the most ‘Spanish’ of the 3 finalists. Needs a bigger punch during the chorus though.
Daniel Diges, last years representative, sings “Angel” a Spanish version of the Robbie Williams hit.
Then, Albert Hammond (one of the jury) sings a song.
Lines are closed and votes are in
And the winner is … Lucia Perez !
SINGER – Lucia Perez
SONG – Que me quiten me lo bailao (Nobody can take away the good times I've had)
MUSIC – Rafael Artesero Herrero
WORDS - Rafael Artesero Herrero
Labels:
2011,
Eurovision,
Lucia Perez,
Que me quiten me lo bailao,
Spain
Friday 18 February 2011
GERMANY
The German final took place on the 18th February and filmed at the Brainpool TV Studios in Cologne and once again presented by Sabine Heinrich & Matthias Opdenhövel.
The show starts with a recap of Lena’s journey in Eurovision 2010. The panel is introduced which, this episode, is Barbra Schöneberger and Ich+Ich singer Adel Tawil. An the band “The Heavytones” is also introduced to the audience. They will be providing live backing to all the songs.
Song 1 is Maybe.
This song appeals to the cheekier and nonchalant side of Lena’s character. She is able to put a lot of her attitude and character into the lyrics and choreography of the song. She is wearing a similar dress she sung this in the semi but her hair is in a pony tail. Her vocals are much stronger in the SF, and sounds like her mic has been upped in volume. The tune to this song is very catchy but the words in the chorus are still a bit garbled. The finish is a bit weak. Good applause from the audience
Song 2 is What Happened To Me Today
This is a very typical Raab sounding song and you can hear Lena’s influences in the words. I guess one could say this is one of the safer choices on offer today. Again she is a wearing a similar dress to her semi performance and her mic seems much louder. The intro to the song is very interesting and engages the listener and slowly grows. She is bopping around quite happily to the song but she would enjoy it – it is her own XD Not sure about the bridge part though. Nice applause from the audience.
Song 3 is Push Forward
This ballad is not normally the kind of song you would associate with Lena. It is nice to see her doing something much more simple and focusing on her voice. She is wearing the same outfit as in the semi. The song starts of very quiet and grows as the song progresses. It is a simple song with some lovely chords progressions. Her voice still doesn’t seem strong enough, especially the very final chorus) for this song but she does give over a lot of meaning. Very enthusiastic clapping and stomping from the audience.
Song 4 is Mama Told Me
Another typical Raab number with lots of brass backing. As Lena had input into this song too I guess she will enjoy singing it again. Lena is wearing a mid length black dress and the dancers are back. Lena is even joining in some of the dancing. She seems very comfortable singing the song and obviously likes singing this style of music and can interpret the lyrics and meaning of the song well.. The ending of the song is strange too. Warm applause from the audience.
Song 5 is A Million And One
This song is a strange mix of styles. Parts of it are quiet and slow others are more up-tempo and fast. It does show off the higher part of her range. Lena is again in black and the dancers are barefoot in red and black. The backing music is very minimal which helps project her voice through the song. The verses are too low although they fit Lena’s personality perfectly, the choruses are better but not catchy enough for Eurovision. An enthusiastic reception from the audience.
Song 6 is Taken By A Stranger
This song is the most unusual of the whole bunch and shows Lena in a brand new light. She is able to show a different genre of music and a more sinister tone in her voice. She is wearing the same outfit as the semis but the dancers are wearing sliver cat suits. The song is very atmospheric and captures the moment well. It has a slight ’80s electronica- industrial-goth feel about it The style also suits her tone and voice volume . Very enthusiastic whooping, clapping and stomping from the audience.
The panel then discusses who they ant in the ‘super final’
Barbra – Taken By A Stranger and Push Forward
Adel – Taken By A Stranger and Mama Told Me
Stefan – cannot choose but his favourite is Taken By A Stranger
The presenters then go through the voting numbers.
Songs 3 and 6 get the biggest cheers by far from the audience
So the Super Final will be between… Push Forward and Taken By A Stranger.
They then do a feature about some of the songs already chosen for the contest
Lena then takes the stage again to sing Push Forward. The lighting for this song also works effectively. I could imagine the audience in May being laced with glow sticks to recreate the look in the whole auditorium. Another good performance Another round of appreciative and enthusiastic applause.
Lena re-appears for Taken By A Stranger. The backing singers and dancers for this song really add to the atmosphere. The instrumental of this song seems just as interesting The whole audience seems to be clapping along to the beginning of the song. Wild cheers from the audience.
Whilst the voting is taking place Adel Tawil sings a song from Ich+Ich’s new album
The winner with 79% of the super final vote is … Taken By A Stranger !!!
SINGER – Lena Meyer-Landrut
SONG – Taken By A Stranger
MUSIC – Gus Seyffert, Nicole Morier and Monica Birkenes
WORDS - Gus Seyffert, Nicole Morier and Monica Birkenes
Here is a video of the winning song taken from the semi-final
Lena - Taken by a stranger from Hanazawa Rui on Vimeo.
Monday 14 February 2011
POLAND
The Polish final took place of 14th February.
The show starts with a Valentines message and a song by K.A.S.A.
After that famous Polish celebrities send their Valentines wishes to the Eurosong contestants and wish them luck.
Magdalena Tul – Jestem (I am)
Magdlena is dressed and looks a bit Karolina (FYROM) She is walking about the stage flanked by dancers and 3 female backing singers. By the looks of it she isn’t doing very much of the singing in the chorus at all and seems to concentrating on dancing instead. During the instrumental in the middle she does some backward rolls Weird. The chorus is really poor and there is no visual or aural hook at all
SheMoans - Supergirl
The 5 girls are dressed a la Lady Gaga meets Yo Gabba Gabba. The song is an edgy rocky version of “Poker Face”. The chorus is quite catchy but strangely the words “Super Girl” don’t appear. They only occur in the verses when whispered by a backing singer. The middle chanting part of the song doesn’t work which is a shame. The girls can actually perform. Not a bad song at all.
Ajda Fijal - Hot like fire
This is a 40s-50s inspired number, like a watered down “Candyman” This era is also reflected in the style the outfits. She has 2 female, 2 male singers and a dancer/saxophonist. Unfortunately Ajda’s voce just isn’t up to scratch. Her accent is not to bad but the ends n the phrases fall of their notes. The echoing part in the middle is the best part. Could have been amazing.
Then Patrycja Markowska sings “Satisfaction” whilst valentine messages scroll the screen
Alizma - Bow to the bow
The girls are dressed like French maids and are clinging to their violins. They are backed by a rapper and 2 baking singers. The girls’ voices are very thin and small and when they sing separately you can barely hear them. Their dancing is minimal too. The chorus is just awful. The rapper should just have appeared by himself. I never want to see or hear that again
IKA - Say
This is another indie type rock song with a female singer. She has a very strange low shouty voice which during the chorus feels really strained. Sound likes something that Silbermond would do. Not really much of a performance going at as everyone seems to be playing on the spot. The chorus does get catchier and more memorable as it progresses. This is actually not a bad song, vey radio friendly.
Then a performance by Stachursky, including more Valentines messages
Roan - Maybe
Another rock band takes the stage. This one seems a little more active than the previous ones. The background is very drum heavy which is a little off-putting. There is not much of a tune to this song and isn’t really sing able to. I get the feeling that the lyrics and vocals of the song are not doing justice to the backing track. The ending of the song is possibly the strongest part. NO winner.
Anna Gogola - Ktos taki jak ty (Someone like you)
Anna is performing with a band but they all seem very individual and not together as one. This is more of a dancy/rocky/schlager song. The bridge of the song is very catchy and gets you hooked. The tune is very simple and the progression of the chorus is very predictable. The backing music feels a little dated, like a DJ Oetzi reject. Would be very interested to hear an English version.
The Trash - Things go better with rock
Another rock song! Starting to get bored now... This is more of an old fashioned rock song like Bon Jovi or Def Leppard in the ‘80s. The band seems to look very dated in leather, apart from the lead singer who looks like a hippy Mick Jagger. Bizarre. The singing /shouting is not nice to the ear and most of it is very much out of tune. The song is no good at all.
Another Valentines performance from Goya
ZoSia - Scream out louder
ZoSia is standing behind a keyboard and has two male backing singers next to her. This an 80’s influenced electro-rock song sounds like something Pink might perform. She is struggling with the low notes in the verses but her voice sours during the choruses. The chorus is quite strong if not a bit shouty. The middle part of the song needs more power and performance to it.
Formula RC - Ja, ty i ty i ja (Me, you and you and me)
This is more of a laid back jazzy rock song, something like Maroon 5 but in Polish. The band have guitarists, a drummer and a saxophonist. The chorus gets quite rocky which is a bit of a shame as I am now fed up of rock songs! The verses are too pedestrian and the choruses are a little to dark for Eurovision and are just not memorable at all. Not a winner.
While the televote is taking place Varius Manx takes the stage and sings a few songs followed by Renton
With 10 mins of voting time to go the top 3 are as follows
1 Magdalena Tul
2 Anna Gogolia
3 Alizma
However Magdalena correctly has 41% of the total vote, so I think this’ll be a runaway winner…
More tunes now from Patrycja Markowska and Blenders
The voting time is now over !
Stachursky takes the stage again, followed by Chemia
1 Magdalena Tul 44.47%
2 Anna Gogola 22.57%
3 Alizma 12.76%
4 The Trash 4.58%
5 SheMoans 3.56%
6 Ajda Fijal 3.30%
7 ZoSia 2.92%
8 Roan 2.20%
9 Formula RC 1.89 %
10 IKA 1.76 %
This means Magdalena Tul will represent Poland with the song “Jestem”
SINGER – Magdalena Tul
SONG – Jestem
MUSIC – Magdalena Tul
WORDS – Magdalena Tul
The show starts with a Valentines message and a song by K.A.S.A.
After that famous Polish celebrities send their Valentines wishes to the Eurosong contestants and wish them luck.
Magdalena Tul – Jestem (I am)
Magdlena is dressed and looks a bit Karolina (FYROM) She is walking about the stage flanked by dancers and 3 female backing singers. By the looks of it she isn’t doing very much of the singing in the chorus at all and seems to concentrating on dancing instead. During the instrumental in the middle she does some backward rolls Weird. The chorus is really poor and there is no visual or aural hook at all
SheMoans - Supergirl
The 5 girls are dressed a la Lady Gaga meets Yo Gabba Gabba. The song is an edgy rocky version of “Poker Face”. The chorus is quite catchy but strangely the words “Super Girl” don’t appear. They only occur in the verses when whispered by a backing singer. The middle chanting part of the song doesn’t work which is a shame. The girls can actually perform. Not a bad song at all.
Ajda Fijal - Hot like fire
This is a 40s-50s inspired number, like a watered down “Candyman” This era is also reflected in the style the outfits. She has 2 female, 2 male singers and a dancer/saxophonist. Unfortunately Ajda’s voce just isn’t up to scratch. Her accent is not to bad but the ends n the phrases fall of their notes. The echoing part in the middle is the best part. Could have been amazing.
Then Patrycja Markowska sings “Satisfaction” whilst valentine messages scroll the screen
Alizma - Bow to the bow
The girls are dressed like French maids and are clinging to their violins. They are backed by a rapper and 2 baking singers. The girls’ voices are very thin and small and when they sing separately you can barely hear them. Their dancing is minimal too. The chorus is just awful. The rapper should just have appeared by himself. I never want to see or hear that again
IKA - Say
This is another indie type rock song with a female singer. She has a very strange low shouty voice which during the chorus feels really strained. Sound likes something that Silbermond would do. Not really much of a performance going at as everyone seems to be playing on the spot. The chorus does get catchier and more memorable as it progresses. This is actually not a bad song, vey radio friendly.
Then a performance by Stachursky, including more Valentines messages
Roan - Maybe
Another rock band takes the stage. This one seems a little more active than the previous ones. The background is very drum heavy which is a little off-putting. There is not much of a tune to this song and isn’t really sing able to. I get the feeling that the lyrics and vocals of the song are not doing justice to the backing track. The ending of the song is possibly the strongest part. NO winner.
Anna Gogola - Ktos taki jak ty (Someone like you)
Anna is performing with a band but they all seem very individual and not together as one. This is more of a dancy/rocky/schlager song. The bridge of the song is very catchy and gets you hooked. The tune is very simple and the progression of the chorus is very predictable. The backing music feels a little dated, like a DJ Oetzi reject. Would be very interested to hear an English version.
The Trash - Things go better with rock
Another rock song! Starting to get bored now... This is more of an old fashioned rock song like Bon Jovi or Def Leppard in the ‘80s. The band seems to look very dated in leather, apart from the lead singer who looks like a hippy Mick Jagger. Bizarre. The singing /shouting is not nice to the ear and most of it is very much out of tune. The song is no good at all.
Another Valentines performance from Goya
ZoSia - Scream out louder
ZoSia is standing behind a keyboard and has two male backing singers next to her. This an 80’s influenced electro-rock song sounds like something Pink might perform. She is struggling with the low notes in the verses but her voice sours during the choruses. The chorus is quite strong if not a bit shouty. The middle part of the song needs more power and performance to it.
Formula RC - Ja, ty i ty i ja (Me, you and you and me)
This is more of a laid back jazzy rock song, something like Maroon 5 but in Polish. The band have guitarists, a drummer and a saxophonist. The chorus gets quite rocky which is a bit of a shame as I am now fed up of rock songs! The verses are too pedestrian and the choruses are a little to dark for Eurovision and are just not memorable at all. Not a winner.
While the televote is taking place Varius Manx takes the stage and sings a few songs followed by Renton
With 10 mins of voting time to go the top 3 are as follows
1 Magdalena Tul
2 Anna Gogolia
3 Alizma
However Magdalena correctly has 41% of the total vote, so I think this’ll be a runaway winner…
More tunes now from Patrycja Markowska and Blenders
The voting time is now over !
Stachursky takes the stage again, followed by Chemia
1 Magdalena Tul 44.47%
2 Anna Gogola 22.57%
3 Alizma 12.76%
4 The Trash 4.58%
5 SheMoans 3.56%
6 Ajda Fijal 3.30%
7 ZoSia 2.92%
8 Roan 2.20%
9 Formula RC 1.89 %
10 IKA 1.76 %
This means Magdalena Tul will represent Poland with the song “Jestem”
SINGER – Magdalena Tul
SONG – Jestem
MUSIC – Magdalena Tul
WORDS – Magdalena Tul
Sunday 13 February 2011
MALTA
The Maltese final was held on February 12th at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta. The semi-final was held the day before when 24 songs had been reduced to 16. The Maltese entry this year is “One Life” sung by Glen Vella who has three female backing singers and two male dancers. The visuals of this song are trying to be a bit Lady Gaga/Kylie/Pet Shop Boys with the backing singers in black coats and red glasses and the dancers with stage triangular kneed trousers and red full face visors.
The song is more or less a late ‘80s early 90’s Hi-NRG record. The intro to the song is very retro. I get the feeling it is trying to be modern but to me it feels very dated and old. The song contains a lot of stereotypical lyrics and doesn’t really go anywhere new. The chorus itself is actually very long and have lots of separate tunes and parts, and attention is lost quite quickly. In fact the whole song feels very short even though it lasts the whole 3 minutes. Will be interesting to know if the song undergoes any remixing or tweaking before it enters the semi final.
Glen is an OK singer. His voice is a little shrill at times and his diction is not always perfect, especially during the lower toned verses. In fact during the choruses, the quality of the backing singers just shows you where his flaws are. He is very enthusiastic and gets a lot of audience participation during his performance. It is definitely the type of song that will get the Eurovision crowd up on their feet. The song could have been done so much more justice by someone with a much rounder voice with a bit more soul.
A poor effort from Malta this year, do you agree?
SINGER – Glen Vella
SONG – One Life
MUSIC – Fleur Balzan
WORDS - Paul Giordimaina
The song is more or less a late ‘80s early 90’s Hi-NRG record. The intro to the song is very retro. I get the feeling it is trying to be modern but to me it feels very dated and old. The song contains a lot of stereotypical lyrics and doesn’t really go anywhere new. The chorus itself is actually very long and have lots of separate tunes and parts, and attention is lost quite quickly. In fact the whole song feels very short even though it lasts the whole 3 minutes. Will be interesting to know if the song undergoes any remixing or tweaking before it enters the semi final.
Glen is an OK singer. His voice is a little shrill at times and his diction is not always perfect, especially during the lower toned verses. In fact during the choruses, the quality of the backing singers just shows you where his flaws are. He is very enthusiastic and gets a lot of audience participation during his performance. It is definitely the type of song that will get the Eurovision crowd up on their feet. The song could have been done so much more justice by someone with a much rounder voice with a bit more soul.
A poor effort from Malta this year, do you agree?
SINGER – Glen Vella
SONG – One Life
MUSIC – Fleur Balzan
WORDS - Paul Giordimaina
BELGIUM
The Belgian Final was held on February 12th at the Palais des Congrès in Liège. After a very complicated selection process involving money raising, internet voting and a hastily rushed semi final, the winning song was “With Love Baby” sung by the group Witloof Bay.
The performers are actually an acapella vocal group, something only seen once before in Eurovision. You can tell that through groups are obviously very well practised and understand their craft and so in terms of vocal performance it is very good May main criticism I have of their singing ability is that a couple of the singers have quite thick French accents which can feel a little odd. Also at times the singers sing over themselves and it can be hard making out what everybody is saying.
As a positive the band seem to be able to interact with each other, the audience the cameras and be able to walk around the stage with confidence as well as being able to do all of these whilst singing at the same time! The key change is done with style and expertise. What I would suggest is that the band gets a bit of a make over before the contest. I didn’t like the outfits and they certainly didn’t look like a group. Either they need to wear the same thing or they wear very different thing to emphasise the different roles they have in the making of the song.
The main downside is that the song itself is weak whether it is acapella or backing track. More of the beat boxing n the middle would be appreciated. It isn’t singable and there isn’t much of a hook.
Talented? Definitely! Will it get out of the semi? I’m not sure….
SINGER – Witloof Bay
SONG – With Love Baby
MUSIC – RoxorLoops, Benoît Giaux
WORDS - RoxorLoops, Benoît Giaux
The performers are actually an acapella vocal group, something only seen once before in Eurovision. You can tell that through groups are obviously very well practised and understand their craft and so in terms of vocal performance it is very good May main criticism I have of their singing ability is that a couple of the singers have quite thick French accents which can feel a little odd. Also at times the singers sing over themselves and it can be hard making out what everybody is saying.
As a positive the band seem to be able to interact with each other, the audience the cameras and be able to walk around the stage with confidence as well as being able to do all of these whilst singing at the same time! The key change is done with style and expertise. What I would suggest is that the band gets a bit of a make over before the contest. I didn’t like the outfits and they certainly didn’t look like a group. Either they need to wear the same thing or they wear very different thing to emphasise the different roles they have in the making of the song.
The main downside is that the song itself is weak whether it is acapella or backing track. More of the beat boxing n the middle would be appreciated. It isn’t singable and there isn’t much of a hook.
Talented? Definitely! Will it get out of the semi? I’m not sure….
SINGER – Witloof Bay
SONG – With Love Baby
MUSIC – RoxorLoops, Benoît Giaux
WORDS - RoxorLoops, Benoît Giaux
Saturday 12 February 2011
ICELAND
The Icelandic Final took place n the 12th February at Rekjavik. The winners were Sigurjón's Friends with their song “Aftur Heim” (Back Home)
This song almost did not make the Icelandic heats. The writer of this song, Sigurjón Brink, (who was in last year's Icelandic final) was due to perform this song in the heats but died suddenly about a week before it was due to be sung. In memory, the song was sung by his friends in the heat, hence the bands name.
The song is a very happy go lucky song with lots of brass and banjo. The band itself it tight and the singers are very good. It is another summery number but with more of a Radio 2 tone. The ending of the song is quite clever as the chorus is sung twice in different speeds which would be emphasised more by a bit of movement. The band doesn’t really do that much, which is a bit of a shame. Maybe in Dusseldorf they might wear something a little bit brighter to make them more memorable.
The song may possibly be translated for Dusseldorf which sould possibly help its chances but the group may wish to sing the song as is as a full tribute to their songwriter
A nice song with a heartfelt sentiment – but is that enough to win?
SINGER – Sigurjón's Friends
SONG – Aftur Heim (Back Home)
MUSIC – Sigurjón Brink
WORDS - Sigurjón Brink
This song almost did not make the Icelandic heats. The writer of this song, Sigurjón Brink, (who was in last year's Icelandic final) was due to perform this song in the heats but died suddenly about a week before it was due to be sung. In memory, the song was sung by his friends in the heat, hence the bands name.
The song is a very happy go lucky song with lots of brass and banjo. The band itself it tight and the singers are very good. It is another summery number but with more of a Radio 2 tone. The ending of the song is quite clever as the chorus is sung twice in different speeds which would be emphasised more by a bit of movement. The band doesn’t really do that much, which is a bit of a shame. Maybe in Dusseldorf they might wear something a little bit brighter to make them more memorable.
The song may possibly be translated for Dusseldorf which sould possibly help its chances but the group may wish to sing the song as is as a full tribute to their songwriter
A nice song with a heartfelt sentiment – but is that enough to win?
SINGER – Sigurjón's Friends
SONG – Aftur Heim (Back Home)
MUSIC – Sigurjón Brink
WORDS - Sigurjón Brink
Labels:
2011,
Aftur Heim,
Eurovision,
Iceland,
Sigurjón's Friends
NORWAY
The Norwegian Final took place on the 12th February at the Spektrum in Oslo The winner, after 4 semis, a second chance round and final, was Stella Mwangi with “Haba Haba (Little by Little)
“Haba Haba” is an African-influenced dance number with a very simple tune and progression. The song seems to tell the tale of the singer as a young girl being given advice from her Grandma about life and the world. The chorus of the song is in Swahilli. The music to this song is very summery and uplifting. It could definitely be a summer anthem over Europe as the chorus is easily chantable and memorable. It is also reminiscent of the huge World Cup song “Waka Waka”
Personally I would love to see much more ‘full on’ African dancing’ during the performance. Although Stella and the backing dancers do do some dancing it is more disco-ey and gesturing but I feel something a bit more ethnic would emphasise the power of the song much more.
A great fun song, definitely Eurovision, but with a bit of a twist. Will Eastern Europe get it?
SINGER – Stella Mwangi
SONG – Haba Haba
MUSIC – Stella Mwangi, Beyond51 and Big City
WORDS - Stella Mwangi, Beyond51 and Big City
“Haba Haba” is an African-influenced dance number with a very simple tune and progression. The song seems to tell the tale of the singer as a young girl being given advice from her Grandma about life and the world. The chorus of the song is in Swahilli. The music to this song is very summery and uplifting. It could definitely be a summer anthem over Europe as the chorus is easily chantable and memorable. It is also reminiscent of the huge World Cup song “Waka Waka”
Personally I would love to see much more ‘full on’ African dancing’ during the performance. Although Stella and the backing dancers do do some dancing it is more disco-ey and gesturing but I feel something a bit more ethnic would emphasise the power of the song much more.
A great fun song, definitely Eurovision, but with a bit of a twist. Will Eastern Europe get it?
SINGER – Stella Mwangi
SONG – Haba Haba
MUSIC – Stella Mwangi, Beyond51 and Big City
WORDS - Stella Mwangi, Beyond51 and Big City
FINLAND
The Finnish final took place on 12th February at the Caribia hall in Turku.
Paradise Oskar sings “Da Da Dam” (which he also wrote and composed) after gaining the highest number of televotes and SMS votes.
Now this is a song with some unusual qualities. First of all this is a very understated performance, very much akin to Tom Dice for Belgium last year. As this did well last year, maybe they are hoping to have the effect. He sits by himself with his guitar and strums away on his guitar. The song is very quiet and folky and does have a nice ring to it. The song does grow slightly but not too much. The chorus is very strong but you do have to listen very carefully to understand the sentiment. But most unusually this is a song has a conscience - it is a song about the environment.
Although I am not a big fan of 'la-la-la', 'do-do-do', 'ding dang dong', and oher nonsense eurovision lyrics, but in this case, the da-da-dam part, espeially at the end of the song, works really well and should possibly be pushed a bit more.
I am pleased to say that Finland are sending something decent this year, but is it a Eurovision song…?
SINGER – Paradise Oskar
SONG - Da Da Dam
MUSIC - Axel Ehnström
WORDS - Axel Ehnström
Paradise Oskar sings “Da Da Dam” (which he also wrote and composed) after gaining the highest number of televotes and SMS votes.
Now this is a song with some unusual qualities. First of all this is a very understated performance, very much akin to Tom Dice for Belgium last year. As this did well last year, maybe they are hoping to have the effect. He sits by himself with his guitar and strums away on his guitar. The song is very quiet and folky and does have a nice ring to it. The song does grow slightly but not too much. The chorus is very strong but you do have to listen very carefully to understand the sentiment. But most unusually this is a song has a conscience - it is a song about the environment.
Although I am not a big fan of 'la-la-la', 'do-do-do', 'ding dang dong', and oher nonsense eurovision lyrics, but in this case, the da-da-dam part, espeially at the end of the song, works really well and should possibly be pushed a bit more.
I am pleased to say that Finland are sending something decent this year, but is it a Eurovision song…?
SINGER – Paradise Oskar
SONG - Da Da Dam
MUSIC - Axel Ehnström
WORDS - Axel Ehnström
Friday 11 February 2011
IRELAND
The Irish final took place on 11th February as a special Eurosong edition of “The Late, Late, Show” hosted by Ryan Tubridy. This year, RTE have tried to curb the recent run of poor performances of Ireland by introducing a new selection format with a slight x-factor twist. RTE have elected 5 mentors, all with music and entertainment experiences, whose job was to select an act, a song as well as getting them ready for the pre-selection performance.
The panel is presented – Marty Whelan, Cheryl Baker, Brian Kennedy and Marie Farrell.
Act 1 is mentored by Ronan Hardiman
Don Mescall – Talking With Jennifer
Don sings the song backed by a five piece male and female band, all singing live vocals. He is strutting about on the stage and stomping about a lot. The piano riff in the middle is quite catchy in the middle. The song sounds much better than the recorded version although the chorus is not quite clear enough. This would work very well on the radio and could be a hit.
A very favourable review from all the panel.
Act 2 is mentored by Caroline Downey Desmond
Jedward – Lipstick
The twins are dressed in red suits and huge quiffs and backed by two male and two female singers in black. It is quite clear they are not doing all the singing. The backing singers are doing some of the ends of the verses. It is very heavily choreographed but they do some very bad free styling during the verses. These guys are enjoying themselves but Europe will not get it.
The panel think that the song and performance is ‘joyous’, ‘energetic’ and ‘funny’
Act 3 is mentored by Willie Kavanagh
Bling – Shine On
They stand boy-girl-girl-boy behind microphones stands. The motown-esque start is really unusual. The start is far to choreographed and looks quite forced and contrived. As soon as they lose the stands and interact with each other it feels much more real. The group is really tight and the harmonies are very well sung. They seem really pleased with how it went.
The jury seem to agree that this worked much better live than on CD.
Act 4 is mentored by Liam Lawton
The Vard Sisters – Send Me An Angel
The three sisters are in Greek style white dresses with a pianist and 2 backing singers all in black. The song is well sung and is very clear. The theme and style of the song seems a little dated, although cleverly it does have a whiff of lots of other different songs and melodies i.e. “You raise me up” and Ellie Goulding’s version of “Your song”
The jury seem torn as to whether this is a Eurovision song or if it is contemporary enough.
Act 5 is mentored by David Hayes
Nikki Kavanagh – Falling
Nikki is joined by 2 male dancers, 2 male and 1 female backing singer. Her voice is very good and sounds very much like the recorded version. She walks around her mic stand with confidence and the movement does not affect her voice. The backing singers add a little something to the song. This is very contemporary and cold be played on the radio.
The jury does not like the dancers or the staging but say she has the best voice.
While the vote is taking place Tubridy talks to 2 former Irish hosts Cynthia Ní Mhurchu and Mary Kennedy.
Then they show a complication of ‘mistakes’ of Eurovision
The voting lines are shut and while the collate the votes, Bucks Fizz perform “Making your mind up”
The jury votes are added up first
Don Mescall 44
Jedward 62
Bling 32
The Vard Sisters 36
Nikki Kavanagh 66
The viewer points are added on
Don Mescall 48
Jedward 98
Bling 44
The Vard Sisters 54
Nikki Kavanagh 96
This means that Jedward with “Lipstick will be representing Ireland in Dusseldorf.
SINGER – Jedward
SONG – Lipstick
MUSIC – Lars Jensen And Martin Larson
WORDS – Dan Priddy
The panel is presented – Marty Whelan, Cheryl Baker, Brian Kennedy and Marie Farrell.
Act 1 is mentored by Ronan Hardiman
Don Mescall – Talking With Jennifer
Don sings the song backed by a five piece male and female band, all singing live vocals. He is strutting about on the stage and stomping about a lot. The piano riff in the middle is quite catchy in the middle. The song sounds much better than the recorded version although the chorus is not quite clear enough. This would work very well on the radio and could be a hit.
A very favourable review from all the panel.
Act 2 is mentored by Caroline Downey Desmond
Jedward – Lipstick
The twins are dressed in red suits and huge quiffs and backed by two male and two female singers in black. It is quite clear they are not doing all the singing. The backing singers are doing some of the ends of the verses. It is very heavily choreographed but they do some very bad free styling during the verses. These guys are enjoying themselves but Europe will not get it.
The panel think that the song and performance is ‘joyous’, ‘energetic’ and ‘funny’
Act 3 is mentored by Willie Kavanagh
Bling – Shine On
They stand boy-girl-girl-boy behind microphones stands. The motown-esque start is really unusual. The start is far to choreographed and looks quite forced and contrived. As soon as they lose the stands and interact with each other it feels much more real. The group is really tight and the harmonies are very well sung. They seem really pleased with how it went.
The jury seem to agree that this worked much better live than on CD.
Act 4 is mentored by Liam Lawton
The Vard Sisters – Send Me An Angel
The three sisters are in Greek style white dresses with a pianist and 2 backing singers all in black. The song is well sung and is very clear. The theme and style of the song seems a little dated, although cleverly it does have a whiff of lots of other different songs and melodies i.e. “You raise me up” and Ellie Goulding’s version of “Your song”
The jury seem torn as to whether this is a Eurovision song or if it is contemporary enough.
Act 5 is mentored by David Hayes
Nikki Kavanagh – Falling
Nikki is joined by 2 male dancers, 2 male and 1 female backing singer. Her voice is very good and sounds very much like the recorded version. She walks around her mic stand with confidence and the movement does not affect her voice. The backing singers add a little something to the song. This is very contemporary and cold be played on the radio.
The jury does not like the dancers or the staging but say she has the best voice.
While the vote is taking place Tubridy talks to 2 former Irish hosts Cynthia Ní Mhurchu and Mary Kennedy.
Then they show a complication of ‘mistakes’ of Eurovision
The voting lines are shut and while the collate the votes, Bucks Fizz perform “Making your mind up”
The jury votes are added up first
Don Mescall 44
Jedward 62
Bling 32
The Vard Sisters 36
Nikki Kavanagh 66
The viewer points are added on
Don Mescall 48
Jedward 98
Bling 44
The Vard Sisters 54
Nikki Kavanagh 96
This means that Jedward with “Lipstick will be representing Ireland in Dusseldorf.
SINGER – Jedward
SONG – Lipstick
MUSIC – Lars Jensen And Martin Larson
WORDS – Dan Priddy
Tuesday 8 February 2011
semi-final 2 - Germany
1 A Million and One - written by Errol Rennalls and Stavros Ioannou
This is a very archetypal Lena song with that kind of talky feel to it. The backing music has more then a whiff of Kate Nash/Lily Allen about it. It seems to be quite a girly song. The verses are too long and chorus seems a little on the weak side but it does show off her upper range. The backing dancers are actually quite off-putting with their ballet-influenced dance.
2 Teenage Girls - written by Viktoria Hansen, Lili Tarkow-Reinisch and Yacine Azeggagh
This song starts off quite slow and quiet. However, the lyrics of this are far too playful and naughty and gets a little predictable (if not also offensive and rude). As the song goes I am waiting for the song to progress and get bigger but it doesn’t quite come. The chorus is a little weak with the do-do-do repetition. A very “Lena” song but would bomb at Eurovision.
3 Push Forward - written by Daniel Schaub and Pär Lammers
Another slow song for Lena that starts with a very simple ballad piano beat. This is a very simple, if not effective song. As the song goes on the backing grows the song gets more meaning. I feel that this song would favour a far more stronger vocalist. The chorus does not seem to suite Lena’s mockney accent. However there is a false ending which fools a few people!
4 At All - written by Aloe Blacc
Unfortunately this is no “I need a dollar –part 2” :o( This is another slowish jazzy track. The song does allow Lena to put a lot of performance into the look and sound of the song which makes it sound quite strong. She seems to be enjoying this song a lot. Once again this is a perfect Lena song but would get totally lost amid the hubbub of Eurovision.
5 A Good Day - written by Audra Mae, Todd Edgar Wright and Scott Simons
This is a slightly more up-tempos guitar based summery song. The song starts off quite Lena-ish but something feels a bit wrong. The tune of this song is all over the place. The chorus seems to yodel around from high to low notes and Lena hits a few bum notes during this part, which doesn’t help. This also makes the words to the song very hard to hear.
6 Mama Told Me - written by Stefan Raab and Lena Meyer-Landrut
A typical Raab arrangement with lots of brass in the backing music. The starts sound a little bit Motown/early disco and Lena’s dancing also put you in this frame of mind. Lena seems to be pushing her voice much more in this song (no favouritism I hope!!!)The chorus of this song is much catchier than anything we have heard this semi-final but is still no Eurovision song…
And the 3 songs through to the final on ARD next Friday are (in no particular order)… Push Forward, Mama Told Me and A Million And One.
This is a very archetypal Lena song with that kind of talky feel to it. The backing music has more then a whiff of Kate Nash/Lily Allen about it. It seems to be quite a girly song. The verses are too long and chorus seems a little on the weak side but it does show off her upper range. The backing dancers are actually quite off-putting with their ballet-influenced dance.
2 Teenage Girls - written by Viktoria Hansen, Lili Tarkow-Reinisch and Yacine Azeggagh
This song starts off quite slow and quiet. However, the lyrics of this are far too playful and naughty and gets a little predictable (if not also offensive and rude). As the song goes I am waiting for the song to progress and get bigger but it doesn’t quite come. The chorus is a little weak with the do-do-do repetition. A very “Lena” song but would bomb at Eurovision.
3 Push Forward - written by Daniel Schaub and Pär Lammers
Another slow song for Lena that starts with a very simple ballad piano beat. This is a very simple, if not effective song. As the song goes on the backing grows the song gets more meaning. I feel that this song would favour a far more stronger vocalist. The chorus does not seem to suite Lena’s mockney accent. However there is a false ending which fools a few people!
4 At All - written by Aloe Blacc
Unfortunately this is no “I need a dollar –part 2” :o( This is another slowish jazzy track. The song does allow Lena to put a lot of performance into the look and sound of the song which makes it sound quite strong. She seems to be enjoying this song a lot. Once again this is a perfect Lena song but would get totally lost amid the hubbub of Eurovision.
5 A Good Day - written by Audra Mae, Todd Edgar Wright and Scott Simons
This is a slightly more up-tempos guitar based summery song. The song starts off quite Lena-ish but something feels a bit wrong. The tune of this song is all over the place. The chorus seems to yodel around from high to low notes and Lena hits a few bum notes during this part, which doesn’t help. This also makes the words to the song very hard to hear.
6 Mama Told Me - written by Stefan Raab and Lena Meyer-Landrut
A typical Raab arrangement with lots of brass in the backing music. The starts sound a little bit Motown/early disco and Lena’s dancing also put you in this frame of mind. Lena seems to be pushing her voice much more in this song (no favouritism I hope!!!)The chorus of this song is much catchier than anything we have heard this semi-final but is still no Eurovision song…
And the 3 songs through to the final on ARD next Friday are (in no particular order)… Push Forward, Mama Told Me and A Million And One.
Tuesday 1 February 2011
semi-final 1 - Germany
Normally I would not do semi reviews but as this situation is quite unique I feel it is important.
Last year’s winner Lena is once again singing the German entry, however each semi she will be singing the selected songs which will be narrowed down for the final. I feel it is important I listen and review all the songs and see if I feel the same about the entries.
1 Good news - written by Audra Mae and Ferras Alqaisi
The song starts of quietly and builds slowly. The song has a kind of old fashioned 20/30s feel to it. It almost feels like it could do with being a little faster. Lena seems to be struggling with some of the lower notes. The tune is not really catchy enough for Eurovision.
2 Maybe – written by Daniel Schaub and Pär Lammers
This song is a little more like Lena’s style but the verses seem quite quick and garbled. The bridge section is far too low. The chorus is actually quite catchy and with some additional hand claps could be a catchy one! Lena looks a little lost and confused on stage and the dress really doesn’t suit her.
3 I like you – written by Rosi Golan and Johnny McDaid
Lena starts singing along with just an acoustic guitar. The song is much clearer to listen to and the harmony with the backing singers is very nice. I am not so sure about the simplicity of the chorus, it feels weak compared to the verses. However the set up of the song looks good. Not memorable enough for ESC.
4 That again – written by Stefan Raab
Another mid-tempo jazzy number. Lots of trumpets, drums and bass. Lena is strutting about on stage and seems to be enjoying this number. Once again the backing seems to loud and Lena’s vocals don’t sound too good. The verses build up but this isn’t followed through into the chorus. A bit strange.
5 Taken by a Stanger - Gus Seyffert, Nicole Morier and Monica Birkenes
This is more of a mysterious minimalist electropop-jazz style. It certainly sounds very interesting and engaging. She is also joined by 4 dancers who actually help sell the song. Lena seems to be getting into this. There is quite a long instrumental part which is a bit too long. Certainly not a archetypal Eurovision song but very interesting.
6 What happened to me - written by Lena Meyer-Landrut and Stefan Raab
Back to the mid-tempo jazz. Sounds like the opening sequence from a brand new comedy series. Lena is enjoying herself and is getting into the ‘acting’ of the song. Although it’s a perfectly good song that would be heard on many a radio station it is just a little bit predictable and that is not good.
The 3 songs through (in no particular order) are… Maybe, Taken By A Stranger and What Happened To Me
Last year’s winner Lena is once again singing the German entry, however each semi she will be singing the selected songs which will be narrowed down for the final. I feel it is important I listen and review all the songs and see if I feel the same about the entries.
1 Good news - written by Audra Mae and Ferras Alqaisi
The song starts of quietly and builds slowly. The song has a kind of old fashioned 20/30s feel to it. It almost feels like it could do with being a little faster. Lena seems to be struggling with some of the lower notes. The tune is not really catchy enough for Eurovision.
2 Maybe – written by Daniel Schaub and Pär Lammers
This song is a little more like Lena’s style but the verses seem quite quick and garbled. The bridge section is far too low. The chorus is actually quite catchy and with some additional hand claps could be a catchy one! Lena looks a little lost and confused on stage and the dress really doesn’t suit her.
3 I like you – written by Rosi Golan and Johnny McDaid
Lena starts singing along with just an acoustic guitar. The song is much clearer to listen to and the harmony with the backing singers is very nice. I am not so sure about the simplicity of the chorus, it feels weak compared to the verses. However the set up of the song looks good. Not memorable enough for ESC.
4 That again – written by Stefan Raab
Another mid-tempo jazzy number. Lots of trumpets, drums and bass. Lena is strutting about on stage and seems to be enjoying this number. Once again the backing seems to loud and Lena’s vocals don’t sound too good. The verses build up but this isn’t followed through into the chorus. A bit strange.
5 Taken by a Stanger - Gus Seyffert, Nicole Morier and Monica Birkenes
This is more of a mysterious minimalist electropop-jazz style. It certainly sounds very interesting and engaging. She is also joined by 4 dancers who actually help sell the song. Lena seems to be getting into this. There is quite a long instrumental part which is a bit too long. Certainly not a archetypal Eurovision song but very interesting.
6 What happened to me - written by Lena Meyer-Landrut and Stefan Raab
Back to the mid-tempo jazz. Sounds like the opening sequence from a brand new comedy series. Lena is enjoying herself and is getting into the ‘acting’ of the song. Although it’s a perfectly good song that would be heard on many a radio station it is just a little bit predictable and that is not good.
The 3 songs through (in no particular order) are… Maybe, Taken By A Stranger and What Happened To Me
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