Six More Entries Decided

Ireland


Unfortunately for the rest of Europe the Irish are inflicting the Brothers Grim(es) on us.  Jedward and their awful song "Lipstick" was not the winner with the regional juries, but carried enough of the telephone vote to beat Nikki Kavanagh by a short head.  In hindsight though RTE may just have played a blinder here.  The country (and presumably RTE) are virtually bankrupt, so send the worst entry ever - Genius!


They will struggle to get out of the semi-final, mainly because their rather large fanbase in the UK cannot vote, and the rest of Europe will be scratching their heads in bemusement.


Malta


Considering that their NF was chock full of quality efforts, I am at a loss as to why Glen Valla was the choice of the Maltese jury/televoters.  He is nothing more than a token Pretty-Boy, his disco effort "One Life", although a lot different from the usual girl-ballads they are more associated with, it is rather uninspiring, and will struggle to qualify.


Iceland

In a result that surprised no-one the late Sigurjon Brink will be represented in Düsseldorf as his song "Aftur Heim", performed by a tribute band consisting of five of his friends, was an easy winner in Iceland.  Nobody can claim it was the best song, because it wasn't, however the story behind it was more than enough to gain the sympathy of the Jury and televoters.  Whether the sentiments will be enough to bring it much success in the contest, who knows.


I understand this is the first time since 1965 that a deceased songwriter has been represented.


Finland


Another country on the long list of "..we do not want to win this thing.." as ordinary boy-band-type-performer  Paradise Oskar received the Finnish nod.  The song "Da Da Dam", is beyond uninteresting, it's nonsense title notwithstanding.




Belguim


After last year you would have thought that Belgium were on the way back, but Witloof Bay are no Tom Dice, nowhere near.  3 minutes of total tedium that I struggled to listen to.  Certain non-qualifier.


Norway

Finally, a wining entry I have a strong regard for. "Haba Haba" by Stella Mwangi (despite a hefty nod in the direction of Shakiras "Waka Waka" World Cup effort) is strong and dynamic and should get votes by the shed-load.  Must stand every chance of figuring very highly in the final, and could present Norway with their second winner in 3 years.