I am just about to fly out of Sydney and over to the lovely (and for this year, rather inexpensive) London for a quick spot of shopping prior to Oslo.
I touch down in Oslo on 18th May and rest assured I'll be blogging every day from then on.
In the meantime, part 2 of my personal Eurovision reviews...
Azerbaijan - the other favourite of this years contest does just a little more than conjure images of Rihanna. Safura has lost her umbrella, the delegation hired Beyonces choreographer and Michael Jackons filmmakker, and what do we have? A rather middle of the road, American sounding piece of r'n'b style pop. The reason it is favourite is quite obvious - Azerbaijan WANT to win and they will pump all sorts of money into doing so. Problem I have with this is that the song doesn't have any 'douze points' moments in the singing. Its all 'drip drop, drip drop' inoffensive and unremarkable chorus - lyrically the chorus lets it down. I am certain it will look great on stage, but the song is nothing special. Additionally, American-styled songs have never fared well on the Eurovision scoreboard. Its gonna qualify, its going to do well, but it wont win for a whole heap of reasons.
(I could also get on my little platform and state why I hope Azerbaijan don't win this year as I believe it could set the future of Eurovision back, but thats for another time when I'm drunk and rambling).
Armenia - Azerbaijans neighbours have sent Eva to sing to us about her 'Apricot Stone', and story behind the lyrics aside, I think this is the type of ethnic pop that I think has improved the Eurovision in the past few years. Eva is not a dancing-type, but her voice more than appears to make up for this. The song builds nicely, and by the end I can see the whole arena up on their feet dancing. Its gonna fly through to the final and I expect a top 10 position at ease.
Slovakia - 'Horehronie' is, as many fans have already said, 'Wild Dances-lite'. Not so much for the music, but for the presentation. Kristina will be clad in a leather-ethic-nature style dress, whilst leather men stomp around her. So whats the failing considering that I'm comparing it to a Eurovision winner? Its the fact that the song is more about the presentation than the song. Kristina sings well, but I dont think we'll be thinking that during the show, we'll be too busy watching the busy presentation. More style than substance. It has its fans, it will qualify, but I do think this will one for the 2nd half of the leaderboard at the final.
United Kingdom - I'll be honest, as a UK fanclub member who went to great lengths to make a UK flag dress this year, this song had me thinking about burning the dress. Pete Waterman is a classic songwriter/producer, and I still listen to his 80s work to this day. I had high expectations. What redeeming qualities this song had that recalled those golden Waterman years (the dancebeat and tempo) have been lost in the cd version of the song - slowed down to become no better than millions of artists out there trying to get a break. You'd never see it in the charts outside of Eurovision (or indeed in). Josh sings capably, but honestly, he's been handed a stinker to perform. If it wasnt for automatic UK qualification, this would come nowhere near the final.
Romania - this is my runner-up for the most underrated song of this years bunch. Paula and Ovi are in my eyes, this years Aysel and Arash (and more than just beyond it being a male female upbeat duet). They have provided the summer pop dance hit that I most expect to hear on the radio after Eurovision during my travels. The leather catsuit Paula will (hopefully) wear onstage is set to gather the votes of the hot-blooded straight men out there, and boy does she have a set of lungs on her! The chorus is catchy, memorable and will stick in the minds of voters. Also like the double ended piano/keyboard onstage - very eyecatching and easy to recall. Just last week I saw 180/1 odds on it to win - expecting those to shorten significantly once rehearsals start. Very very good chance for an each way (top 5) bet.
Serbia - I want to hate this so much, and I certainly did on the first listen. 'Ovo Je Balkan' draws upon folk, gypsy and balkan influences and Milan Stankovic is nothing if not eyecatching (for all the wrong reasons - his impossibly blonde bowlcut still scares me on the screen). But then the introduction draws me in, and by the time we reach the chorus I'm screaming 'Balkan Balkan Balkan'. Thus, it will be the song people will have in their heads and want to get out. I do think it is going to be a favourite amongst the other Balkan countries, but wont gather high votes elsewhere. That will mean its a definate qualifier, and I predict that thanks to some neighbourly voting, will finish mid-range in the table for the final.
Iceland - "volcano-permitting" has become the catch-cry of Europe for the past month. And it applies to this tune as well. Funny how world events affect the voting of Eurovision, but I expect the anger some people harbour towards Iceland for the volcano ruining their recent travel plans will affect the placing of Hera Bjorks song. Add to this the fact its practically the same music as their entry 2 years ago - Eurobands 'This is my life', with less catchy lyrics and that Hera wont be nearly as energetic on stage, I cant see this doing brilliantly. Perhaps Heras great voice, the songs dance beat and huge amount of gay fans will probably pull her through to the final, but it will end in the 2nd half of the final scoreboard.
Moldova - welcome to this years Waldos People - 'Run Away' is a track that sounds brilliant on cd, loads of commercial potential, and falls flat on the live stage. Its starting to get tipped quite highly but I fear people havent seen the national final footage where Olias voice boomed and screeched through the chorus. It will look energetic and colourful enough to some votes, and thanks to a opening place at the 1st (and weakest) semi it will waltz through, but at the final it will die horribly if its sung out of tune. This song also reminds me of Guru Josh (maybe its the saxophone, maybe its the fact it sounds like its stuck in the raves on the late 80s), and thats never a great thing.
Lithuania - I'll be honest this is MY favourite entry of the year. I'm not saying I want it to win, but its the most joyous song on offer at this years competition. Jurgis and his boys now how to entertain the crowd, and with a funny catchy upbeat ditty like 'Eastern European Funk' it will sail through to the final. Add to that, reasonably good looking guys, a little bit of humour, some poking fun in politics, and a little bit of flashing leg and sequinned hotpants, we have a top 5 contender for sure. Don't agree? Think back to 2006 and LT Uniteds' 'We are the winners'... it was the highest result Lithuania has ever received at Eurovision, and it had the element of good natured fun to it. Incultos entry is better both musically, lyrically and in presentation. In a far more average Eurovision year. The likes of the UK and Ireland will vote in droves for it (and not just because of diaspora). I took a each way bet on Lithuania 380/1. I expect to be rich this time in 15 days even if they only come 4th.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
3 days to go, and things are looking up
SBS have:
1. Fixed the error. Yes, its Chanee and N'evergreen now!
2. Been in contact with me to arrange an interview in Oslo
Its also 3 days till I leave Australia and head for the Eurovision city of Oslo - touching down in Eurovision town on 18th May till 30th May.
I'll be updating the blog as much as possible whilst there with photos and reviews, and prior to that, I'll finish my reviews.
See you in Oslo!
1. Fixed the error. Yes, its Chanee and N'evergreen now!
2. Been in contact with me to arrange an interview in Oslo
Its also 3 days till I leave Australia and head for the Eurovision city of Oslo - touching down in Eurovision town on 18th May till 30th May.
I'll be updating the blog as much as possible whilst there with photos and reviews, and prior to that, I'll finish my reviews.
See you in Oslo!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Day 5
Still not changed. And they have started advertising the site without fixing it up.
Also spotted 'Believe Me' instead of 'Believe' by Dima Bilan. Not as bad as getting the whole act wrong.
Also spotted 'Believe Me' instead of 'Believe' by Dima Bilan. Not as bad as getting the whole act wrong.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Nothing has changed.
Day 2 - still the wrong entrant on the site for Denmark.
Starting to believe that it will stay that way.
Starting to believe that it will stay that way.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Personal thoughts on the 2010 acts...
I've got some time to make up, as I've not blogged during the selection process. With all the songs decided, these are my thoughts 10 acts for this year (in no particular order, the other 29 to follow):
Germany - its the favourite. I have a love/hate relationship with it. Nothing would make me happier than a Berlin 2011 Eurovision, and I think 'Satellite' is the catchiest song on offer this year. Its stuck in my head permanently, and I've now even been caught singing it aloud at a Eurovision tv event. Lena is a confident performer with a real personality and she'll pull off an excellent performance. However, Lenas voice despite being memorable grates on me. There's no need for her to imitate our Lisa Mitchell, an act who also grates on me with this nonsense mockney accent.
Switzerland - I'm still not understanding the appeal of this song... Michael von der Heide has a lovely voice, but maybe its the fact that I don't speak the language that makes it hard for me to enjoy the tune. Or it could be that I can't see beyond his ears and gold jacket. The Swiss have had far stronger entries in the past few years, and they didnt make it to the final. With the Swiss being in the stronger 2nd semi as well, I can't see 2010 being their year to qualify.
Estonia - I adore this tune. Malcolm Lincolns 'Siren' is one of the few songs I want to actually buy from this years lineup. Its a cool alternative song, harking back to my favourite era - the early 80s, with songwriting that I think compares with that of Squeeze. BUT its not a Eurovision song. Falling in the 1st semi, it stands a good chance to make it to the final, but it will be lost amongst the ballads and dance tunes. Shame.
Poland - 'Legenda' has one major failing for me - its so mixed up in style. One minutes its all Polish folk, then a touch of opera, then power ballad. Marcin has a wonderful voice, however the song is mess. I don't think it deserves such a bad form betting (last - 250/1 for most bookies), but its too hit and miss to make it to final unless some sympathy voting comes into play.
Latvia - look at Aisha, isn't she adorable? She is certainly the cutest female in the contest this year and votes for that. But 'What For?' was appauling in the Latvian final. She sang off key, the presentation featured washerwomen for no apparent reason I could see, so it looked like it belonged as a scene in Oliver. Where's the cast of Glee when you need them? The actual filmclip was very moving and kudos for that, but its the live sphere that matters. Again, its a 1st semi contender so there's a chance for final, but if so, 2nd half of the leaderboard at the final.
Bulgaria - ahhhh Miro. He's a hidden talent this one, and the song 'Angel si ti' is a corker of a dance tune. I can already picture myself at Euroclub singing 'woaaaaaaaaaah oh woah woaaaaaah woaaaah wo wo wo'. Great lyrics. He can sing, he can dance, he looks great on stage. And his filmclip goes down as my favourite for this year. There's nothing at all wrong, but at the same time I don't feel winner. I wish I felt differently, but he's in the 2nd semi and its a very borderline qualifier in my eyes. Rest assured Miro, I'll still cheer for you.
Albania - Juliana Pasha is THE most underrated act of 2010. From the moment I heard the song I disagreed with the majority of people - I knew 1. she was a very strong singer, and 2. in English, this song would really work. Juliana worked on her pronounciation (peoples most common complaint) and the lyrics are good. After the Netherlands Eurovision in Concert, it seems people have finally worked it out. It will be the song everyone will be dancing to in the Eurocafe over and over again. She'll be at least a top 3 qualifier from semi 1. This girl has the potential for top 5 in the 2010 final.
Turkey - MaNga were winners of Best European Act at MTV Awards last year. Fans seem to forget they already have a following and thus can't be discounted. Its a good tune, well performed, made even better by the recent remix. Only problem, rock rarely works at Eurovision (unless you are dressed as orcs). I think its good for an each way bet.
Sweden - they have this amazing history of great pop tunes, and yet in 2010, they give us this song by Anna Bergendahl - or as I think of her - Jewel-lite. The song in itself is inoffensive and pleasant enough, Anna can sing, but it goes nowhere. There's no highlight finish, there's no real presentation from Anna. It seems that Sweden have been so desperate this year to show they can do something different, and in doing so, lost the way completely. I wish I felt differently, but there were better songs than this at the Melodifestivalen that could have guaranteed them a top 5 finish in 2010.
Ireland - the welcome return of Niamh Kavanagh. Stunning voice and striking red hair, and a beautiful ballad that also marks the return of good Irish tunes at Eurovision. I like it, and its my choice of the female ballads this year. But Niamh is drawn amongst much younger and prettier artists in a strong semi, which makes me worry it wont qualify. If it was a year devoid of ballads (it isnt) then it certainly would. And its no longer the 1990s where it was all about the song. Being a winner once at Eurovision also no longer guarantees you'll do well again. My fingers are crossed firmly however for qualification to the final.
Germany - its the favourite. I have a love/hate relationship with it. Nothing would make me happier than a Berlin 2011 Eurovision, and I think 'Satellite' is the catchiest song on offer this year. Its stuck in my head permanently, and I've now even been caught singing it aloud at a Eurovision tv event. Lena is a confident performer with a real personality and she'll pull off an excellent performance. However, Lenas voice despite being memorable grates on me. There's no need for her to imitate our Lisa Mitchell, an act who also grates on me with this nonsense mockney accent.
Switzerland - I'm still not understanding the appeal of this song... Michael von der Heide has a lovely voice, but maybe its the fact that I don't speak the language that makes it hard for me to enjoy the tune. Or it could be that I can't see beyond his ears and gold jacket. The Swiss have had far stronger entries in the past few years, and they didnt make it to the final. With the Swiss being in the stronger 2nd semi as well, I can't see 2010 being their year to qualify.
Estonia - I adore this tune. Malcolm Lincolns 'Siren' is one of the few songs I want to actually buy from this years lineup. Its a cool alternative song, harking back to my favourite era - the early 80s, with songwriting that I think compares with that of Squeeze. BUT its not a Eurovision song. Falling in the 1st semi, it stands a good chance to make it to the final, but it will be lost amongst the ballads and dance tunes. Shame.
Poland - 'Legenda' has one major failing for me - its so mixed up in style. One minutes its all Polish folk, then a touch of opera, then power ballad. Marcin has a wonderful voice, however the song is mess. I don't think it deserves such a bad form betting (last - 250/1 for most bookies), but its too hit and miss to make it to final unless some sympathy voting comes into play.
Latvia - look at Aisha, isn't she adorable? She is certainly the cutest female in the contest this year and votes for that. But 'What For?' was appauling in the Latvian final. She sang off key, the presentation featured washerwomen for no apparent reason I could see, so it looked like it belonged as a scene in Oliver. Where's the cast of Glee when you need them? The actual filmclip was very moving and kudos for that, but its the live sphere that matters. Again, its a 1st semi contender so there's a chance for final, but if so, 2nd half of the leaderboard at the final.
Bulgaria - ahhhh Miro. He's a hidden talent this one, and the song 'Angel si ti' is a corker of a dance tune. I can already picture myself at Euroclub singing 'woaaaaaaaaaah oh woah woaaaaaah woaaaah wo wo wo'. Great lyrics. He can sing, he can dance, he looks great on stage. And his filmclip goes down as my favourite for this year. There's nothing at all wrong, but at the same time I don't feel winner. I wish I felt differently, but he's in the 2nd semi and its a very borderline qualifier in my eyes. Rest assured Miro, I'll still cheer for you.
Albania - Juliana Pasha is THE most underrated act of 2010. From the moment I heard the song I disagreed with the majority of people - I knew 1. she was a very strong singer, and 2. in English, this song would really work. Juliana worked on her pronounciation (peoples most common complaint) and the lyrics are good. After the Netherlands Eurovision in Concert, it seems people have finally worked it out. It will be the song everyone will be dancing to in the Eurocafe over and over again. She'll be at least a top 3 qualifier from semi 1. This girl has the potential for top 5 in the 2010 final.
Turkey - MaNga were winners of Best European Act at MTV Awards last year. Fans seem to forget they already have a following and thus can't be discounted. Its a good tune, well performed, made even better by the recent remix. Only problem, rock rarely works at Eurovision (unless you are dressed as orcs). I think its good for an each way bet.
Sweden - they have this amazing history of great pop tunes, and yet in 2010, they give us this song by Anna Bergendahl - or as I think of her - Jewel-lite. The song in itself is inoffensive and pleasant enough, Anna can sing, but it goes nowhere. There's no highlight finish, there's no real presentation from Anna. It seems that Sweden have been so desperate this year to show they can do something different, and in doing so, lost the way completely. I wish I felt differently, but there were better songs than this at the Melodifestivalen that could have guaranteed them a top 5 finish in 2010.
Ireland - the welcome return of Niamh Kavanagh. Stunning voice and striking red hair, and a beautiful ballad that also marks the return of good Irish tunes at Eurovision. I like it, and its my choice of the female ballads this year. But Niamh is drawn amongst much younger and prettier artists in a strong semi, which makes me worry it wont qualify. If it was a year devoid of ballads (it isnt) then it certainly would. And its no longer the 1990s where it was all about the song. Being a winner once at Eurovision also no longer guarantees you'll do well again. My fingers are crossed firmly however for qualification to the final.
Just because I can...
I'm gonna count how many days it takes SBS to actually correct the mistake of having Brinck up as this years entrant for Denmark.
Consider the fact that I posted something for their blog over 24 hours ago telling them to correct it (either its an oversight for their web team just copying and pasting info from last year, or the researcher is SERIOUSLY wrong).
So its been 1 day so far.
Not being nasty, its just part of providing an accurate service for Eurovision fans in Australia.
Consider the fact that I posted something for their blog over 24 hours ago telling them to correct it (either its an oversight for their web team just copying and pasting info from last year, or the researcher is SERIOUSLY wrong).
So its been 1 day so far.
Not being nasty, its just part of providing an accurate service for Eurovision fans in Australia.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
SBS brings Eurovision fever to Australia
Just under a fortnight ago I had the fortune to attend a SBS filming for "The A to Z of Eurovision" - a preview and history show of sorts for Eurovision screening the week prior to the final.
This is part personal review and preview of what you'll see on your screens in a fortnights time...
The show is hosted once again by the wonderful Julia Zemiro (star of 'Rockwiz' and original cast member of 'Eurobeat') and Sam Pang.
Don't expect personal insights from these two however, or loads of secrets to be revealed from their first venture into Eurovision land last May.
This show is purely scripted, and stuck to the formula of "A is for... Australia", etc
The good -
Admittedly "A is for Australia" sounded rather silly considering we can't actually be part of Eurovision - but it served as a segue for an interview with 'Mr Eurovision' Johnny Logan, 3 time winner for Ireland, who was born in Frankston. Ahhhh yes, Australia DOES have a relationship with Eurovision! Even if only 10 people in the audience remembered the words to "Hold Me Now", it was a much appreciated appearance.
There are other pre-recorded, out of studio interviews scattered amongst the show. These include Gina G (another proud Aussie) who represented the UK in 1996, and also Dima Bilan, winner for Eurovision in 2008, who just proclaimed how excited he was in his limited English (a nice little piece of filming from Dimas recent Aussie tour).
One of the 'moments' was the inclusion of Bjorn Again, both in mimed performance and also as reviewers of some of this years entries. It appears they did more research and knew more than their hosting counterparts.
And also Meow Meow (who?), burlesque dancer, giving fashion tips was funnier than anything on the show (made all the funnier by what she was in fact wearing as fashion). At the end she turned out to be THE highlight of the show, performing a wonderful rendition of 'Poupée De Cire, Poupée De Son' - the winning song from Luxembourg in 1965 sung by Frances Gall.
I'm against having guests on a show about something that have no relationship to the topic or benefit to the momentum of the show, but Miow Miow certainly met the criteria a thousand times over. Unlike...
From good to just not good enough -
Les Murray singing 'Nel Blu Dipinto Di Blu'. Not that Les was a bad singer, far from it. But one expects that they would at least ask the star PRIOR to filming whether he has any memories or relationship to Eurovision rather than during the filming and it looking awkward. Do we really want to talk about the World Cup on a Eurovision show? hmmm... a little potential audience research might say no...
Also, don't expect to see all of this years acts previewed on the show. There were a scattering of clips including the favourite Germany, and other favourite (ummm... since when!?!?) Armenia, short snippets of Belgium, Denmark, France, Romania, and the obligatory Greek entry, 'the crying girl from' Latvia, the 'so bad its brilliant' Lithuania, and 'the one to laugh at 'Serbia' (not my thoughts by the way, but how they were represented on the night).
From not good enough to the downright tacky -
All was looking good in terms of entertainment, detail and quality until the introduction of "The Eurovision dancers" about 1 minute into the show. The 6 dancers looked like they just stepped straight out of the 50th Eurovision anniversary, which was a cringeworthy experience even back then. They danced along to various classic songs, in no way representing anything original or referencing the original act.
There are also discussions on dancing, how to run a Eurovision drinking game and voting procedures. All good things to discuss in regards to Eurovision, but for me, this is where the show REALLY falls down. The somewhat self-proclaimed 'Eurovision Expert' featured managed to spend 5 minutes discussing the voting process and got it wrong. Surely if you are an expert you would get it right?
I know the details dont matter to most how voting occurs (especially in a country that cant vote), but talking about it like you are the authority on the subject and getting it all wrong is not on.
OVERALL -
This show will be a great piece of education and entertainment for the more casual Eurovision fan or SBS watcher, but there's nothing new to really be gathered here for the more avid fan apart from building up to the actual event. The representations given by the hosts were straight out of BBC/Terry Wogan witticisms book. They didnt go as far as to claim that Eurovision is all about sequins and political alliances (and thank god for steering clear of that stereotype), but it didnt exactly make it look like the professional and report it as the world biggest song contest either. They found the middle ground - Eurovision is fun, which for 99% of the viewership, it is.
It would be nice if SBS could take it a little more seriously though as one of their biggest rating shows every year. They have already laid the foundations - its own coverage rather than taking the BBC coverage we had for years. That was a huge step, introducing its own commentary rather than Wogan which really drove many people to watch it here for years. Wogan leaving was a godsend, and the opening for Australian viewers to get a more local flavour on the shows. So bravo to SBS for that. The next step, move away from the comedy side of things... let's give it some respect on our screens. If thats too much of a risk, perhaps hire a Eurovision expert to be part of the commentary team alongside the comedian? One who knows the facts and figures without an autocue and has something to say about the history and entries?
Or at least an expert Eurovision researcher that gets the facts right for the commentators to read (rather than straight off a press release)?
I'm waiting for your call SBS.
At least then you wouldn't need to be told to take Brinck off your website as this years entrant for Denmark.
This is part personal review and preview of what you'll see on your screens in a fortnights time...
The show is hosted once again by the wonderful Julia Zemiro (star of 'Rockwiz' and original cast member of 'Eurobeat') and Sam Pang.
Don't expect personal insights from these two however, or loads of secrets to be revealed from their first venture into Eurovision land last May.
This show is purely scripted, and stuck to the formula of "A is for... Australia", etc
The good -
Admittedly "A is for Australia" sounded rather silly considering we can't actually be part of Eurovision - but it served as a segue for an interview with 'Mr Eurovision' Johnny Logan, 3 time winner for Ireland, who was born in Frankston. Ahhhh yes, Australia DOES have a relationship with Eurovision! Even if only 10 people in the audience remembered the words to "Hold Me Now", it was a much appreciated appearance.
There are other pre-recorded, out of studio interviews scattered amongst the show. These include Gina G (another proud Aussie) who represented the UK in 1996, and also Dima Bilan, winner for Eurovision in 2008, who just proclaimed how excited he was in his limited English (a nice little piece of filming from Dimas recent Aussie tour).
One of the 'moments' was the inclusion of Bjorn Again, both in mimed performance and also as reviewers of some of this years entries. It appears they did more research and knew more than their hosting counterparts.
And also Meow Meow (who?), burlesque dancer, giving fashion tips was funnier than anything on the show (made all the funnier by what she was in fact wearing as fashion). At the end she turned out to be THE highlight of the show, performing a wonderful rendition of 'Poupée De Cire, Poupée De Son' - the winning song from Luxembourg in 1965 sung by Frances Gall.
I'm against having guests on a show about something that have no relationship to the topic or benefit to the momentum of the show, but Miow Miow certainly met the criteria a thousand times over. Unlike...
From good to just not good enough -
Les Murray singing 'Nel Blu Dipinto Di Blu'. Not that Les was a bad singer, far from it. But one expects that they would at least ask the star PRIOR to filming whether he has any memories or relationship to Eurovision rather than during the filming and it looking awkward. Do we really want to talk about the World Cup on a Eurovision show? hmmm... a little potential audience research might say no...
Also, don't expect to see all of this years acts previewed on the show. There were a scattering of clips including the favourite Germany, and other favourite (ummm... since when!?!?) Armenia, short snippets of Belgium, Denmark, France, Romania, and the obligatory Greek entry, 'the crying girl from' Latvia, the 'so bad its brilliant' Lithuania, and 'the one to laugh at 'Serbia' (not my thoughts by the way, but how they were represented on the night).
From not good enough to the downright tacky -
All was looking good in terms of entertainment, detail and quality until the introduction of "The Eurovision dancers" about 1 minute into the show. The 6 dancers looked like they just stepped straight out of the 50th Eurovision anniversary, which was a cringeworthy experience even back then. They danced along to various classic songs, in no way representing anything original or referencing the original act.
There are also discussions on dancing, how to run a Eurovision drinking game and voting procedures. All good things to discuss in regards to Eurovision, but for me, this is where the show REALLY falls down. The somewhat self-proclaimed 'Eurovision Expert' featured managed to spend 5 minutes discussing the voting process and got it wrong. Surely if you are an expert you would get it right?
I know the details dont matter to most how voting occurs (especially in a country that cant vote), but talking about it like you are the authority on the subject and getting it all wrong is not on.
OVERALL -
This show will be a great piece of education and entertainment for the more casual Eurovision fan or SBS watcher, but there's nothing new to really be gathered here for the more avid fan apart from building up to the actual event. The representations given by the hosts were straight out of BBC/Terry Wogan witticisms book. They didnt go as far as to claim that Eurovision is all about sequins and political alliances (and thank god for steering clear of that stereotype), but it didnt exactly make it look like the professional and report it as the world biggest song contest either. They found the middle ground - Eurovision is fun, which for 99% of the viewership, it is.
It would be nice if SBS could take it a little more seriously though as one of their biggest rating shows every year. They have already laid the foundations - its own coverage rather than taking the BBC coverage we had for years. That was a huge step, introducing its own commentary rather than Wogan which really drove many people to watch it here for years. Wogan leaving was a godsend, and the opening for Australian viewers to get a more local flavour on the shows. So bravo to SBS for that. The next step, move away from the comedy side of things... let's give it some respect on our screens. If thats too much of a risk, perhaps hire a Eurovision expert to be part of the commentary team alongside the comedian? One who knows the facts and figures without an autocue and has something to say about the history and entries?
Or at least an expert Eurovision researcher that gets the facts right for the commentators to read (rather than straight off a press release)?
I'm waiting for your call SBS.
At least then you wouldn't need to be told to take Brinck off your website as this years entrant for Denmark.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Catching up on the 'Eurovision in Concert' stuff...
Just watching a few of the interviews of my friends website - www.escdaily.com (go visit, its a refreshing change from the rather favourited Oikotimes site).
Learned 5 things from watching:
1. Jon Lilygreen representing Cyprus (but hails from Wales) appears to be proper mental. At least he'll be laugh to be around at the parties and is more than welcome to join our gang
2. Tom Dice has great taste - the Belgium guitar boy cites his favourite Eurovision entry as 'My Star' by Brainstorm. Additionally, Tom Dice is in my mind THE big dark horse for 2010 - what a simple performance done so well
3. Lithuanias InCulto are a pure joy to watch on stage, despite the 'joke' tag they should qualify for being entertaining AND a good band
4. Albanias Juliana Pasha has proven to more than just myself that her mighty voice deserves a top 5 place this year
5. And lastly, Eurovision feels a lot further away than just 17 days away.
Learned 5 things from watching:
1. Jon Lilygreen representing Cyprus (but hails from Wales) appears to be proper mental. At least he'll be laugh to be around at the parties and is more than welcome to join our gang
2. Tom Dice has great taste - the Belgium guitar boy cites his favourite Eurovision entry as 'My Star' by Brainstorm. Additionally, Tom Dice is in my mind THE big dark horse for 2010 - what a simple performance done so well
3. Lithuanias InCulto are a pure joy to watch on stage, despite the 'joke' tag they should qualify for being entertaining AND a good band
4. Albanias Juliana Pasha has proven to more than just myself that her mighty voice deserves a top 5 place this year
5. And lastly, Eurovision feels a lot further away than just 17 days away.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Its been 11 months...
I did go to Moscow last year, and as soon as the fun started I tended to neglect my blogging duties for Euroclub and Eurocafe and sleeping till 2pm.
This year, I will not repeat that mistake!
I'm attending the event once again in Oslo, and its been on cards since about ummm... my 3rd day in Moscow. I basically returned to home (Sydney) in June, booked my flights in July and its all set.
Since last writing, I also became a travel agent in my 'real' life. Some say its following a underlying love, others would say its just to facilitate my travels :P
I'm booked to leave Australia on 15th May - into London for a day, and then 3 days in Iceland (although considering current circumstances that involve a volcano, that could change), and then 10 days in Oslo. I'm doing stuff after Oslo as well, but Eurovision is certainly the highlight. Again, not a cheap trip by any means, however it is one I don't mind paying for. The experience of Eurovision last year made me happier than anything I can think of for the past 5 years - I met lots of lovely people who I now call 'friends' from around the world, and I danced and sang my little heart out for a week to some very fun music indeed. And the show itself blew my mind. I've never seen anything as big as Eurovision, or experienced an event that people all loved so much.
Eurovision is a very special thing, and it goes beyond just 2 semis and a final every year. The parties were a highlight, and the people.
Anyway... please follow my blog. I'll be giving my thoughts on the entries, and also posting up some Australian following of Eurovision.
In fact, expect another post come the end of tonight.
This year, I will not repeat that mistake!
I'm attending the event once again in Oslo, and its been on cards since about ummm... my 3rd day in Moscow. I basically returned to home (Sydney) in June, booked my flights in July and its all set.
Since last writing, I also became a travel agent in my 'real' life. Some say its following a underlying love, others would say its just to facilitate my travels :P
I'm booked to leave Australia on 15th May - into London for a day, and then 3 days in Iceland (although considering current circumstances that involve a volcano, that could change), and then 10 days in Oslo. I'm doing stuff after Oslo as well, but Eurovision is certainly the highlight. Again, not a cheap trip by any means, however it is one I don't mind paying for. The experience of Eurovision last year made me happier than anything I can think of for the past 5 years - I met lots of lovely people who I now call 'friends' from around the world, and I danced and sang my little heart out for a week to some very fun music indeed. And the show itself blew my mind. I've never seen anything as big as Eurovision, or experienced an event that people all loved so much.
Eurovision is a very special thing, and it goes beyond just 2 semis and a final every year. The parties were a highlight, and the people.
Anyway... please follow my blog. I'll be giving my thoughts on the entries, and also posting up some Australian following of Eurovision.
In fact, expect another post come the end of tonight.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
OK - time for the recap...
Sat in 2nd row at the finals next to the Norwegians. You can imagine it was a bloody brilliant night, full of atmosphere. I promise you the opening part of the show looked just as amazing in the arena. Thats the first time I really liked Dima Bilan.
Downside to the show - well, that morning the gay parade attempted to start and the police arrested everyone. The tv news showed that, but neglected to mention the amount of people who were injured etc. I believe that included one of the guys from De Toppers - the Dutch entry. When we got to the arena it was surrounded by police. We were asked to hide our flags and to stick to the pathway made the line of the police. You could see the looks on their faces like they were one step away from clubbing us all to death. Friggin' scary shit. I went in via the media entrance to avoid them all - probably best for guys who are wearing kilts (I was like their protection being a female, hehe).
After the show my friend Paul and I were interviewed by Russia Today news - featuring the GAYEST man ever as host. Paul lent me his Union Jack flag as we stood in the freezing cold waiting for the interview to start live to air. I'm most certain I looked thoroughly shocking and now I'm told I'll get a copy of it on dvd to watch over. arghhhhhhhhh!
Went to the afterparty where much free alcohol (as per usual) was consumed, as well as some very alcoholic strawberries and icecream. We didnt spot many acts there - they had their own VIP section.
Around 6am the party was winding down and despite my best efforts to leave, Paul kept pulling me back inside. In the end he dragged me over to Euroclub, insisting it would still be open. It wasnt.
Anyway, best thing ever! I cant wait for Oslo Eurovision 2010!
Sat in 2nd row at the finals next to the Norwegians. You can imagine it was a bloody brilliant night, full of atmosphere. I promise you the opening part of the show looked just as amazing in the arena. Thats the first time I really liked Dima Bilan.
Downside to the show - well, that morning the gay parade attempted to start and the police arrested everyone. The tv news showed that, but neglected to mention the amount of people who were injured etc. I believe that included one of the guys from De Toppers - the Dutch entry. When we got to the arena it was surrounded by police. We were asked to hide our flags and to stick to the pathway made the line of the police. You could see the looks on their faces like they were one step away from clubbing us all to death. Friggin' scary shit. I went in via the media entrance to avoid them all - probably best for guys who are wearing kilts (I was like their protection being a female, hehe).
After the show my friend Paul and I were interviewed by Russia Today news - featuring the GAYEST man ever as host. Paul lent me his Union Jack flag as we stood in the freezing cold waiting for the interview to start live to air. I'm most certain I looked thoroughly shocking and now I'm told I'll get a copy of it on dvd to watch over. arghhhhhhhhh!
Went to the afterparty where much free alcohol (as per usual) was consumed, as well as some very alcoholic strawberries and icecream. We didnt spot many acts there - they had their own VIP section.
Around 6am the party was winding down and despite my best efforts to leave, Paul kept pulling me back inside. In the end he dragged me over to Euroclub, insisting it would still be open. It wasnt.
Anyway, best thing ever! I cant wait for Oslo Eurovision 2010!
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Oh, theres only one night left with everyone here for Final and I feel like the comedown has already started. It will be utterly empty on Sunday night :(
Its like Melbourne Comedy Festival comedown or Edinburgh Fringe comedown. And I hate it. I think I've taken the right decision though to book into a hotel for tomorrow and just sleep it all off after a MASSIVE one planned for tonight. I only know 2 people still here on Sunday night - 2 Norwegians. So we are going to dinner together on Sunday which is nice.
I truly love the Eurovision spirit
If I told you I've made about 60 new friends here I wouldnt be exaggerating. There's most people from the UK fanclub - about 40 of them. And at least another 4 UK people from the media. There's a group of 5 Norwegians. 2 Russians. A handful of Swedes. 10 Irish. 3 Spaniards (who in fact were screaming at me from across the road "Australian girl" because I was walking alone to Eurocafe and they wanted me to wait and walk with them to be safe). I don't know, there's a lot of others... too many people. I have had so many photos with people taken as the "aussie girl". Probably more than Alex for Norway! Apparently he 'doesnt do photos' cause too many people ask for a photo with him.
Oh yeah, and I'd say 90% of them are gay men. You dont come to Eurovision to pick up as a woman, thats for sure. Simon from the UK club last night had 2 women (who we suspect were the 2 dopey Russian girls who blog on esckaz) trying to pick him up. I had to tell them in broken English that they are in the wrong place. hehe
Plans are already underway for next year. If Norway wins, I'm there!
I have been ordered to take my inflatible flag tonight by everyone to show off the Aussie flag. I'm in 2nd row. Its BOUND to be on the broadcast. Please, please watch the final for me, if nothing else. Its on Sunday at 7pm.
Here's also hoping nothing bad happens today. The gay parade is on and hopefully no-one gets hurt. I think everyone I know is smart enough to stay well away. But theres also been reports that the police found bullets and a gun hidden in the arena on Tuesday night - possible Eurovision assassination? Fucking frightening. But you cant live your life being scared all the time.
Its like Melbourne Comedy Festival comedown or Edinburgh Fringe comedown. And I hate it. I think I've taken the right decision though to book into a hotel for tomorrow and just sleep it all off after a MASSIVE one planned for tonight. I only know 2 people still here on Sunday night - 2 Norwegians. So we are going to dinner together on Sunday which is nice.
I truly love the Eurovision spirit
If I told you I've made about 60 new friends here I wouldnt be exaggerating. There's most people from the UK fanclub - about 40 of them. And at least another 4 UK people from the media. There's a group of 5 Norwegians. 2 Russians. A handful of Swedes. 10 Irish. 3 Spaniards (who in fact were screaming at me from across the road "Australian girl" because I was walking alone to Eurocafe and they wanted me to wait and walk with them to be safe). I don't know, there's a lot of others... too many people. I have had so many photos with people taken as the "aussie girl". Probably more than Alex for Norway! Apparently he 'doesnt do photos' cause too many people ask for a photo with him.
Oh yeah, and I'd say 90% of them are gay men. You dont come to Eurovision to pick up as a woman, thats for sure. Simon from the UK club last night had 2 women (who we suspect were the 2 dopey Russian girls who blog on esckaz) trying to pick him up. I had to tell them in broken English that they are in the wrong place. hehe
Plans are already underway for next year. If Norway wins, I'm there!
I have been ordered to take my inflatible flag tonight by everyone to show off the Aussie flag. I'm in 2nd row. Its BOUND to be on the broadcast. Please, please watch the final for me, if nothing else. Its on Sunday at 7pm.
Here's also hoping nothing bad happens today. The gay parade is on and hopefully no-one gets hurt. I think everyone I know is smart enough to stay well away. But theres also been reports that the police found bullets and a gun hidden in the arena on Tuesday night - possible Eurovision assassination? Fucking frightening. But you cant live your life being scared all the time.
Friday, May 15, 2009
We went out till 8am last night/today. We came home on the Metro with packed carriages of workers heading to their jobs staring at us. Excellent semi to celebrate (because we all got the countries we wanted through and the songs were fantastic).
Qualifiers were:
Greece
Norway
Azerbaijan
Ukraine
Lithuania
Estonia
Denmark
Croatia
Albania
Moldova
As expected, we sat behind the Greeks which meant the audience was extremely loud. They have heaps to be proud of though - Sakis was unbelievable visually. I waved my flag for Norway. We all got up and danced to Ukraine.
We might all be going to Athens next year...
Anyway, all that fantastic stuff happening meant it was a big party back at Euroclub with the two favourites, and it means we got back an hour later than the night before.
I met the other 2 Aussies here last night. I'm not alone! 2 guys from Canberra, my old home town (at least during 2009).
And my mate Ewan finally emerged from his press bunker and came out with us. He got me a 'anti crisis girl' singlet. I love him!!!!
People saw me jumping up and down and squealing miles away, and just knew it had something to do with Svetlana stuff :)
This is what Eurovision is really about. I get the same buzz as Melbourne years ago. I know this will become an addiction and I'll want to see everyone year after year at this event.
Qualifiers were:
Greece
Norway
Azerbaijan
Ukraine
Lithuania
Estonia
Denmark
Croatia
Albania
Moldova
As expected, we sat behind the Greeks which meant the audience was extremely loud. They have heaps to be proud of though - Sakis was unbelievable visually. I waved my flag for Norway. We all got up and danced to Ukraine.
We might all be going to Athens next year...
Anyway, all that fantastic stuff happening meant it was a big party back at Euroclub with the two favourites, and it means we got back an hour later than the night before.
I met the other 2 Aussies here last night. I'm not alone! 2 guys from Canberra, my old home town (at least during 2009).
And my mate Ewan finally emerged from his press bunker and came out with us. He got me a 'anti crisis girl' singlet. I love him!!!!
People saw me jumping up and down and squealing miles away, and just knew it had something to do with Svetlana stuff :)
This is what Eurovision is really about. I get the same buzz as Melbourne years ago. I know this will become an addiction and I'll want to see everyone year after year at this event.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
OK, last night was fricking awesome!
I stumbled back into my apartment around 7am.
I swear those blisters on my toes look a lot worse than they feel. I'm so wearing my boots tonight instead.
Eurocafe... its basically a 24 hour party venue for Eurovision fans. Its a restaurant by day, nightclub by night. It also a karaoke room and a press centre.
You may as well say though that after 1am, its a gay bar. Wall to wall gorgeous gay men dancing to Eurovision songs. Well gay men and a few women. There arent too many female Eurovision fans here (at least attending the parties).
Never really thought I'd be singing and dancing along in a nightclub to the Albanian entry from this year. hehe. It is so much fun though. The place pumps energy by the litre.
And woooo! 2nd semi tonight!
Now, this semi is going to be fucking amazing! I want you all to watch it on Saturday at 7.30pm on SBS.
Keep an eye out for:
Greece - it is just such a spectacular presentation. The Greek fans are REALLY REALLY LOUD. And so they should be. I think they are sitting right in front of us tonight (we are 9th row). It looks excellent (and hopefully sounds good too on the night)
Norway - cause its my favourite little fairytale
Ukraine - acrobatics, sexy Roman costumes, catchy tune...
Netherlands - its totally kitsch but we've all decided we love it. We will be dancing in the crowd so please watch for us!
Predictions:
Greece
Norway
Ukraine
Azerbaijan
Lithuania
Estonia
Moldova
Denmark
Cyprus will just miss out because she hits some bum notes.
Oh god I'd love to see the Netherlands go through. Its utterly shamefully enjoyable.
I stumbled back into my apartment around 7am.
I swear those blisters on my toes look a lot worse than they feel. I'm so wearing my boots tonight instead.
Eurocafe... its basically a 24 hour party venue for Eurovision fans. Its a restaurant by day, nightclub by night. It also a karaoke room and a press centre.
You may as well say though that after 1am, its a gay bar. Wall to wall gorgeous gay men dancing to Eurovision songs. Well gay men and a few women. There arent too many female Eurovision fans here (at least attending the parties).
Never really thought I'd be singing and dancing along in a nightclub to the Albanian entry from this year. hehe. It is so much fun though. The place pumps energy by the litre.
And woooo! 2nd semi tonight!
Now, this semi is going to be fucking amazing! I want you all to watch it on Saturday at 7.30pm on SBS.
Keep an eye out for:
Greece - it is just such a spectacular presentation. The Greek fans are REALLY REALLY LOUD. And so they should be. I think they are sitting right in front of us tonight (we are 9th row). It looks excellent (and hopefully sounds good too on the night)
Norway - cause its my favourite little fairytale
Ukraine - acrobatics, sexy Roman costumes, catchy tune...
Netherlands - its totally kitsch but we've all decided we love it. We will be dancing in the crowd so please watch for us!
Predictions:
Greece
Norway
Ukraine
Azerbaijan
Lithuania
Estonia
Moldova
Denmark
Cyprus will just miss out because she hits some bum notes.
Oh god I'd love to see the Netherlands go through. Its utterly shamefully enjoyable.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Woah! one semi down, one semi and a final to go.
Like everything else in this fine city, there was a lot of confusion as to where and how to get to our seats. No-one at the arena spoke English at the doors and there were no signs pointing to where the Fan Zone was. Eventually through hand signals, I worked out I had to go downstairs. Then they had the doors closed right up until 30 minutes before the show which got people really angry. On the floor, there were no signs as to the seating area so I sat in this great seats that I assumed was mine, only to be told that no, we were at the side of the stage - not the greatest view - blocked by those swinging cameras. Thus, you will not see any of the UK fanclub waving our flags, or me waving my inflatible hand :(
I can understand why we had those seats - you need to seat the fanclubs of the countries actually in that semi final in front of the stage first. We will get our chance on Saturday at the final. I think our seats for the next semi arent bad though. 9th row in the centre.
We didnt have any real car crash entries this year. A few bum notes though. We thought Andorra looked good, and Switzerland and Belarus. We rated them quite highly. But the qualifications to the finals were:
Bosnia
Turkey
Armenia
Iceland
Finland
Malta
Portugal
Sweden
Israel
Romania
Anyway, makes sense. All the Scandis voted for each other and got through. And pretty girls won over rock songs as per usual.
Apparently the UK tv cut to interviews with acts instead of showing the interval act (which was AMAZING!). Travesty.
The afterparty entertainment last night was a Russian drag show. Quite a good one. It opened with a Kylie set and the boys reckoned they put it on just for me :P
I drank about 4 beers in 20 mins leaving me a little tipsy.
I was chatting away to the guys about the semi and noticed the lead singer of Bosnia standing right next to me (Davor from Regina). I leaned over and said 'congratulations' and he hugged me to say thank you and then grabbed my pass around my neck and pointed at it and said "AUSTRALIA! Are you really from Australia?". He seemed really excited.
Davor and I ended up chatting for quite a while about Australia. He has family that live in the Gold Coast. He says he would like to go on holidays around Sydney and Queensland after this to relax. I was giving him some tourist attraction recommendations.
So he's a really excellent guy. I mentioned I was staying around the corner from their hotel and said I was very welcome to join them on the bus home from Euroclub. We left around 4.30am when things were dying down and god I wish I had a camera last night! The Bosnians are so happy (as to be expected) and were all singing on the bus. I'm so very very happy for them. I said I want them to win for me because I have bets on them at very good odds.
So... I've had about 3 hours sleep, feeling seedy, but I have a semi 2 rehearsal to attend in a couple of hours. Gotta be there to see Norway and the Ukraine perform! Then home to sleep and off to the Russian party tonight. Should be a big one.
Like everything else in this fine city, there was a lot of confusion as to where and how to get to our seats. No-one at the arena spoke English at the doors and there were no signs pointing to where the Fan Zone was. Eventually through hand signals, I worked out I had to go downstairs. Then they had the doors closed right up until 30 minutes before the show which got people really angry. On the floor, there were no signs as to the seating area so I sat in this great seats that I assumed was mine, only to be told that no, we were at the side of the stage - not the greatest view - blocked by those swinging cameras. Thus, you will not see any of the UK fanclub waving our flags, or me waving my inflatible hand :(
I can understand why we had those seats - you need to seat the fanclubs of the countries actually in that semi final in front of the stage first. We will get our chance on Saturday at the final. I think our seats for the next semi arent bad though. 9th row in the centre.
We didnt have any real car crash entries this year. A few bum notes though. We thought Andorra looked good, and Switzerland and Belarus. We rated them quite highly. But the qualifications to the finals were:
Bosnia
Turkey
Armenia
Iceland
Finland
Malta
Portugal
Sweden
Israel
Romania
Anyway, makes sense. All the Scandis voted for each other and got through. And pretty girls won over rock songs as per usual.
Apparently the UK tv cut to interviews with acts instead of showing the interval act (which was AMAZING!). Travesty.
The afterparty entertainment last night was a Russian drag show. Quite a good one. It opened with a Kylie set and the boys reckoned they put it on just for me :P
I drank about 4 beers in 20 mins leaving me a little tipsy.
I was chatting away to the guys about the semi and noticed the lead singer of Bosnia standing right next to me (Davor from Regina). I leaned over and said 'congratulations' and he hugged me to say thank you and then grabbed my pass around my neck and pointed at it and said "AUSTRALIA! Are you really from Australia?". He seemed really excited.
Davor and I ended up chatting for quite a while about Australia. He has family that live in the Gold Coast. He says he would like to go on holidays around Sydney and Queensland after this to relax. I was giving him some tourist attraction recommendations.
So he's a really excellent guy. I mentioned I was staying around the corner from their hotel and said I was very welcome to join them on the bus home from Euroclub. We left around 4.30am when things were dying down and god I wish I had a camera last night! The Bosnians are so happy (as to be expected) and were all singing on the bus. I'm so very very happy for them. I said I want them to win for me because I have bets on them at very good odds.
So... I've had about 3 hours sleep, feeling seedy, but I have a semi 2 rehearsal to attend in a couple of hours. Gotta be there to see Norway and the Ukraine perform! Then home to sleep and off to the Russian party tonight. Should be a big one.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
1st day at Eurovision
I've landed in Eurovision! I'm now in Moscow.
4. A photo with Alexander Rybak from Norway (not yet, but I *do* have a photo of him up close)
I thought for a while I wouldnt be. My driver wasn't there to collect me and I did all sorts of broken English and finger pointing to organise a taxi at a set rate. Then on the way to the apartment Tanya rang (the landlady) and said the water is broken in my flat and I'm staying somewhere else. Its further away from the arena. I still dont have an actual address of where I am staying, so thank god I've got a great sense of direction.
On the plus side, when I got off the plane in Moscow there was a girl holding a Eurovision card and I went up to her and skipped the entire immigration queue of about 50 people. Turns out she thought I was from the Finnish delegation. Hilarious but very helpful.
The metro system here is very much like London and the stations are stunning inside, but its not user friendly. I only had 2 stops to go to get to the arena but even so it took me 2 hours to find the metro entrance! When I did finally negotiate the metro system I then took 40 minutes to find the arena and then the accreditation area. Fortunately no queues there as I really expected. I have a shiny big electronic photographic pass now to wear everywhere, then I got a Eurovision scarf (very cute!) and a metro card for 70 free trips. I unfortunately dont get a bag or a book like the press do. I also dont get access to the press area after tomorrow (when the shows start).
I snuck into the press conference of Germany today which was uneventful, stole a Patricia Kaas from France promo cd, and saw the UK rehearse. The UK does look and sound amazing. I do think now it may go top 10.
And then there was the opening night party. On entry I was given free wine, then I was directed to the buffet - bread tables, meat tables, salad tables, dessert tables and nibbles. The food was constant but settled on Strogonoff and potatoes. Stood and watched the Dutch, Icelandic, Czech Republic and Belgian entries getting interviewed. Had more free wine. The show 'Legends of Eurovision' started and I went up the front and saw Ruslana (who is just so gorgeous) and Dima Bilan and Carola and Genghis Khan (remember that song 'Moscow'? It was excellent there!) and Tatu and so many other acts...
Then I followed that up with even more free wine. During my time there I was interviewed by Swiss radio about their entrant and whether I think it will make it to the final (I do), and had copious amounts of photos taken of me.
I have tons of photos I need to upload, as well as video clips.
As for my hopes for this Eurovision, I have now:
1. Officially danced to Brainstorm 'My Star' at a Eurovision party.
2. Acquired the first of my free promo stuff
3. Seen Ruslana
Three particular wishes left:
4. A photo with Alexander Rybak from Norway (not yet, but I *do* have a photo of him up close)5. Make friends with the Latvian delegation (Intars is apparently ill and wasnt there tonight)
6. Acquire an 'Anti Crisis Girl' tshirt. (everyone here is wearing them so I'm asking lots of people if I can have one too)
Next - 1st semi 1st rehearsal to attend, then the Dutch party at 7pm and the Azerbaijani party at 11pm. Big day.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
1st rehearsal, 2nd semi thoughts
The rehearsals for the 2nd semi just concluded. Quite the surprising bunch - much stronger in total compared to semi 1. But some that have been rated highly fell a bit flat in my eyes, whilst some of them really shone (and amazingly, I picked those ones aaaaaaaaaaaages ago!)
Here are my thoughts on the 2nd semi (in order of personal idea) :
Definite qualifiers: Ukraine, Norway, Azerbaijan
Good chances: Greece (but this rehearsal was a BIG mess), Denmark, Lithuania, Moldova
Borderline: Netherlands, Hungary, Serbia
Need improvement: Albania, Estonia, Croatia, Ireland, Slovenia, Poland, Cyprus, Latvia, Slovakia
Let's be honest, Ukraine is a standout. Yes, more so than Norway (there I said it! I've got a banner for supporting Norway, but the one I think will win is Ukraine). As I said what feels like many moons ago now, we shouldn't discount Svetlana. I think there is still more to be seen in terms of performance, but already its got me 'oooh'ing and 'aaaah'ing. Perhaps this is too flamboyant, more focus should be on the song, not the acrobatics. But how good does it look and sound? It certainly caught everyones attention.
Most people watching and voting for Eurovision won't know the songs or see the clips beforehand. Therefore it HAS to be eye catching and an instaneous song. In terms of competition both Norway and Ukraine have it by the bucketload.
Right now I'm rubbing my hands together and patting myself on the back for taking a bet on Ukraine 3 weeks ago at 60/1. Just put another bit of money on it at 27/1. If I win, I'll get $1140 in total (around 570 Euros). Thats at least another week of holidaying for me in Europe :)
I believe its going at 19/1 now on some betting website. Put it on whilst you can.
Here are my thoughts on the 2nd semi (in order of personal idea) :
Definite qualifiers: Ukraine, Norway, Azerbaijan
Good chances: Greece (but this rehearsal was a BIG mess), Denmark, Lithuania, Moldova
Borderline: Netherlands, Hungary, Serbia
Need improvement: Albania, Estonia, Croatia, Ireland, Slovenia, Poland, Cyprus, Latvia, Slovakia
Let's be honest, Ukraine is a standout. Yes, more so than Norway (there I said it! I've got a banner for supporting Norway, but the one I think will win is Ukraine). As I said what feels like many moons ago now, we shouldn't discount Svetlana. I think there is still more to be seen in terms of performance, but already its got me 'oooh'ing and 'aaaah'ing. Perhaps this is too flamboyant, more focus should be on the song, not the acrobatics. But how good does it look and sound? It certainly caught everyones attention.
Most people watching and voting for Eurovision won't know the songs or see the clips beforehand. Therefore it HAS to be eye catching and an instaneous song. In terms of competition both Norway and Ukraine have it by the bucketload.
Right now I'm rubbing my hands together and patting myself on the back for taking a bet on Ukraine 3 weeks ago at 60/1. Just put another bit of money on it at 27/1. If I win, I'll get $1140 in total (around 570 Euros). Thats at least another week of holidaying for me in Europe :)
I believe its going at 19/1 now on some betting website. Put it on whilst you can.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
1st rehearsal, 1st semi thoughts
Its been a while since I blogged because its been mayhem here in Oz for me.
I'm leaving for Moscow and Eurovision tomorrow!
The Euros have been bought, the bag packed, the contacts made, the tickets and visa secured...
Between work and sleep I've pretty much lived and breathed Eurovision stuff. The rehearsals started on Sunday and they are conveniently scheduled in the evening Australian time, so I have been following the events online via other blogs (the excellent 'All Kinds of Everything' and 'On Europe' livejournals particularly), and then EscToday, Oikotimes, and obviously Eurovision.tv websites, and YouTube clips.
So far only 3 acts have REALLY impressed me. Armenia, Bosnia and Norway.
There have been plenty of 'good' acts and plenty of 'ohmigod! I hope they improve in the next week' acts. And then there's the ones worth having a giggle over... so far Czech Republic, Serbia, Belgium (although I like the song, it does look rather over the top) and Latvia.
Here are my thoughts so far for qualification in the first semi
(in my preferenced order - borderline I'm not sure of, could easily been taken over by the 'needs improvement' acts) -
Definite qualifiers: Bosnia, Armenia, Turkey
Good chances: Switzerland, Malta, Iceland, Portugal
Borderline: Sweden, Finland, Romania
Need improvement: Bulgaria, Israel, Montenegro, FYR Macedonia, Belarus, Andorra, Czech Republic, Belgium.
Yesterday, the most impressive acts were Norway and Denmark. It does seem to be a good year for the Scandis.
Today is probably the most exciting of the rehearsal days. Looking forward to seeing the unknown but possible favourites Greece, Azerbaijan, Ukraine.
I'm leaving for Moscow and Eurovision tomorrow!
The Euros have been bought, the bag packed, the contacts made, the tickets and visa secured...
Between work and sleep I've pretty much lived and breathed Eurovision stuff. The rehearsals started on Sunday and they are conveniently scheduled in the evening Australian time, so I have been following the events online via other blogs (the excellent 'All Kinds of Everything' and 'On Europe' livejournals particularly), and then EscToday, Oikotimes, and obviously Eurovision.tv websites, and YouTube clips.
So far only 3 acts have REALLY impressed me. Armenia, Bosnia and Norway.
There have been plenty of 'good' acts and plenty of 'ohmigod! I hope they improve in the next week' acts. And then there's the ones worth having a giggle over... so far Czech Republic, Serbia, Belgium (although I like the song, it does look rather over the top) and Latvia.
Here are my thoughts so far for qualification in the first semi
(in my preferenced order - borderline I'm not sure of, could easily been taken over by the 'needs improvement' acts) -
Definite qualifiers: Bosnia, Armenia, Turkey
Good chances: Switzerland, Malta, Iceland, Portugal
Borderline: Sweden, Finland, Romania
Need improvement: Bulgaria, Israel, Montenegro, FYR Macedonia, Belarus, Andorra, Czech Republic, Belgium.
Yesterday, the most impressive acts were Norway and Denmark. It does seem to be a good year for the Scandis.
Today is probably the most exciting of the rehearsal days. Looking forward to seeing the unknown but possible favourites Greece, Azerbaijan, Ukraine.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Thursday, April 9, 2009
This time of year I'm normally at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, hanging around the bar, seeing about a hundred shows, doing my own show promotion and management. Not this year. In order to attend Moscow, a sacrifice had to be made. Therefore for the first time in 13 years, I won't be there.
And of all the years, the comedy festival has a Eurovision-theme show...
Trades Hall is presenting every Friday a competition to find a possible entrant for an Australian entry into Eurovision 2010. Of course, its all a joke, but isn't it great to see the Australias biggest cultural event celebrate the Worlds best cultural event?
If only I could be in Melbourne to cheer the acts on. *sigh* Its free, its on for the next 3 Fridays. Check it out!
www.comedyattrades.com.au
And of all the years, the comedy festival has a Eurovision-theme show...
Trades Hall is presenting every Friday a competition to find a possible entrant for an Australian entry into Eurovision 2010. Of course, its all a joke, but isn't it great to see the Australias biggest cultural event celebrate the Worlds best cultural event?
If only I could be in Melbourne to cheer the acts on. *sigh* Its free, its on for the next 3 Fridays. Check it out!
www.comedyattrades.com.au
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
I just realised that my own profiling, thoughts, etc on Eurovision acts now will have be done at the rate of 2 a day if I'm gonna finish them by the time I leave.
sheeesh! Its getting close now.
My thoughts on certain acts have really changed over the past 3 months, but one thing remains is that I still tip Norway to win. And I guess thats why I just finished painting a banner to wave in Moscow...
"i'm in (heart) with a fairytale"
I'll take a photo and post it up here and then people can look out for me waving it at the show.
sheeesh! Its getting close now.
My thoughts on certain acts have really changed over the past 3 months, but one thing remains is that I still tip Norway to win. And I guess thats why I just finished painting a banner to wave in Moscow...
"i'm in (heart) with a fairytale"
I'll take a photo and post it up here and then people can look out for me waving it at the show.
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