Thread: Eurovision Song Contest Board: Oblivion / Ship of Fools.
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Posted by Gill H (# 68) on
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Less than an hour to the first semi-final, and no thread yet? So I'm starting one.
Hugal's nipped out for snacks, the Baileys is open and my typing fingers are ready to start making notes. I'll post my traditional reviews of the shenanigans at some point on this thread.
As for our song this year, well, at least it will stand out as a bit of fun amid a sea of earnestly belted ballads. OK, so it may sound like a cross between a 1920s Charleston ditty and the Birds Eye Potato Waffles song, but at least it sticks in the brain.
Let the snark-fest begin!
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
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Snark-fest?
I see it more as a celebration of the camp, cheesy, awkward and downright naff.
Posted by Gill H (# 68) on
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Trust me, there'll be plenty of snark on this thread.
Posted by Alan Cresswell (# 31) on
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Go Australia!
Actually, I've not heard any of the songs (if that's the correct word) yet this year. But, the word "Eurovision" does sort of imply European ... and Australia. Love it.
Posted by Mr Curly (# 5518) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Alan Cresswell:
Go Australia!
Actually, I've not heard any of the songs (if that's the correct word) yet this year. But, the word "Eurovision" does sort of imply European ... and Australia. Love it.
Still can't work out why we're there, but bring it on! What happens if we win??
mr curly
down under
Posted by Sipech (# 16870) on
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I caught a tiny bit of it last night, but hadn't been drinking so it looked awful. Definitely need to neck a few shots of schnapps early on Saturday night.
Posted by Alan Cresswell (# 31) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Mr Curly:
Still can't work out why we're there, but bring it on!
Someone in an Australian broadcasting company paid a great wad of cash?
quote:
What happens if we win??
In theory, you get to host the contest next year.
Posted by Kittyville (# 16106) on
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Something to do with how big a deal it is here, Mr Curly, and the SBS is an associate member of the European Broadcasting Union, or something like that.
And apparently not, Alan - although the EBU might be missing a trick if we do win and they stick to that position.
Posted by Wet Kipper (# 1654) on
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I heard that this year is a "trial run" for teh Aussies, and if they win then they will be a regular feature in further years, at which point another win would mean hosting the next one, as everyone else is forced to do
Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on
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I usually miss Eurovision, as I lack a TV, but this year friends have invited us over to celebrate with them ![[Big Grin]](biggrin.gif)
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on
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Celebrate. One of us is unsure of the meaning of this word.
Posted by Alex Cockell (# 7487) on
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T-minus 3 mins to 2nd semi on BBC3 - other channels here - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eurovision_Song_Contest_2015
Posted by Alex Cockell (# 7487) on
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On air..
Posted by Ariel (# 58) on
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If Australia are in it then it's gone global and it needs to change its name and become The Globovision Song contest, or something.
It's not the same as when it had Terry in it and the whole thing took three hours with commentary like "Hello everybody from beautiful Malta. The weather is fine and hot and you [to host] are looking super exquisite and utterly charming tonight" with whatever equally witty response then drowned out by Terry muttering "Just get on with it" in a tone of quiet despair.
"And here are the results of the Maltese jury. Finland, one point." Which would immediately be echoed by someone else in French, "Finland, un point". Slowly and excruciatingly until it became clear who had Nul Points and would be safe from having to host the contest for the next year.
Ah, those were the days.
Posted by Karl: Liberal Backslider (# 76) on
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It's been years since anything but novelty songs were on Eurovision. The average pub band writes stuff that's better than most Eurovision winners, never mind the also-runs. The whole thing would depress me if it weren't so laughable.
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Heavenly Anarchist:
I usually miss Eurovision, as I lack a TV, but this year friends have invited us over to celebrate with them
We celebrate not only with booze, but with cheese. It seems appropriate.
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Karl: Liberal Backslider:
The whole thing would depress me if it weren't so laughable.
It would depress me if I watched it sober. That is why I enjoy it.
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Ariel:
If Australia are in it then it's gone global
It's not as if Israel or Azerbaijan are exactly European either.
I only caught some of it - but there seemed to be a thing for having a woman in a chiffon dress standing in a wind tunnel against a backdrop of blasted forest.
Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on
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quote:
Originally posted by balaam:
quote:
Originally posted by Heavenly Anarchist:
I usually miss Eurovision, as I lack a TV, but this year friends have invited us over to celebrate with them
We celebrate not only with booze, but with cheese. It seems appropriate.
A good point, I will ensure I take some cheese with me in case we haven't had our fill.
I must make some voting paddles, my own point scheme is usually based on the their choice of outfits.
Posted by bib (# 13074) on
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I'm surprised anyone watches that rubbish. At least I'm spared it in Oz as it will be on in the middle of the night.
Posted by David (# 3) on
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Eurovision hasn't been the same for me since "My Lovely Horse" came last.
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Karl: Liberal Backslider:
It's been years since anything but novelty songs were on Eurovision.
I liked last year's final enough to buy the CD.
Posted by Wet Kipper (# 1654) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Karl: Liberal Backslider:
It's been years since anything but novelty songs were on Eurovision.
Given that the Common Linnets'song is still memorable a year later, I would beg to differ
Just shame it didn't win.
Posted by Ariel (# 58) on
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quote:
Originally posted by David:
Eurovision hasn't been the same for me since "My Lovely Horse" came last.
Yes, I agree. That was a clear winner in my view. All the effort that went into that, too.
[ 22. May 2015, 11:07: Message edited by: Ariel ]
Posted by The Rogue (# 2275) on
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A bit of a disaster in the Rogue household - we are going camping over the weekend so will have to enjoy it on the radio without being able to see (except in our minds) what is going on. You never know: if we like it we might always do it that way.
Posted by Gee D (# 13815) on
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quote:
Originally posted by orfeo:
quote:
Originally posted by Karl: Liberal Backslider:
It's been years since anything but novelty songs were on Eurovision.
I liked last year's final enough to buy the CD.
Not sure what conclusion to draw from that.
Given that this is Aust's first year in the event, it's amazing just how little attention it's drawing here. Not on the SMH website (or the ABC News one either), no front page on other papers, no sounds of people talking about it on the trains. Someone has probably done a fair sum of money on it.
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on
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quote:
Originally posted by The Rogue:
A bit of a disaster in the Rogue household - we are going camping over the weekend so will have to enjoy it on the radio without being able to see (except in our minds) what is going on. You never know: if we like it we might always do it that way.
In the days of the much missed Ray Moore we always listened to his commentary. So much better than Terry Wogan, who did the TV.
Posted by Gee D (# 13815) on
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Or listening to Johnny Moyes's cricket commentaries on the radio while watching the game of the tv screen, tv turned to silent.
Posted by Gill H (# 68) on
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Eurovision Semi 1
As I’m a bit late with my reviews this year, I will concentrate on those acts that didn’t make it through to the final, so that I can save some surprises for Saturday.
Vienna. City of waltzes, pastry and moody 1980s pop videos. But thanks to the impressive performance of Conchita Wurst last year, it's now been invaded by the annual celebration of kitsch, spectacle and downright weirdness that is the Eurovision Song Contest. And so, in a living room somewhere in West London, my hubby and I sit with glasses of Baileys at the ready, to see what delights the first semi-final has in store for us.
Our hosts Scott Mills and Mel Giedroyc welcome us to the evening, after a warning that it features ‘repetitive flashing images’. That probably sums up quite a few of the acts, we suspect. Anyway, we start off with what looks like an elaborate fizzy drink advert, where famous landmarks are shown drawn in brightly coloured bubbles. Then we’re in the hall, where a huge net of lights twists and turns above the audience. The stage is apparently ‘a portal’ connecting the different countries, which somehow is supposed to reinforce the theme of ‘building bridges’ (no, it wasn’t very clear to me either…) It looks unnervingly like the Eye of Sauron sometimes.
Last year’s winner, Conchita (who’s evidently dropped the Wurst by now), reprises ‘Rise Like A Phoenix’ and calls up the acts performing tonight, who walk through what looks like a crowd of extras from Amadeus. Well, we are in the land of Mozart. Then we meet our hosts Miriam, Alice and Arabella who start the proceedings. The UK can’t vote tonight, so we are free to just relax, have a Baileys or two and enjoy the Euro-craziness.
Which starts with…
Moldova
Evidently inspired by George Michael videos, the singer is frisked by some sexy cops in very tight outfits, who even rip off his shirt at one point. I’m sure the Moldovan police force are on the phone right now, complaining about the misrepresentation of their excellent policing methods. There is actually a song happening as well – reminds us rather of Hear’say, and will probably be around for about as long as they were.
Armenia – they qualified, so I’ll review them at the final
Belgium – qualified
Netherlands
The first thing we notice is that the logos for the countries are that country’s flag in a circle, using the ‘bubbles’ theme from earlier. Which means the Netherlands logo looks like it might get sued by Pepsi any minute. Anyway, let’s concentrate on the singer, a girl in ill-advised black culottes who rips off her black lace veil and storms into a forgettable mid-tempo song. The chorus mostly consists of the word ‘Why’, or as she sings it ‘Why aye aye aye’ which leads us to wonder if she’s actually a Geordie in disguise.
Finland
A punk band comprised of people with learning difficulties, who are entering the contest with a stated aim of ‘raising awareness’. Certainly a first at Eurovision, though let’s not forget that Finland gave us Lordi, so clearly they like to push those boundaries. The song is the shortest ever Eurovision entry at 1 minute 40 seconds. Much as I applaud the idea of their inclusion in the contest, the song is really not my thing.
Then we see Conchita in the green room making small talk, while most of Europe has an ad break. And soon we’re back with …
Greece – qualified
Estonia – qualified
Fyr Macedonia
A male singer in an Inspector Clouseau coat sings in front of a temple. The song is about autumn leaves, which are drifting profusely on the screen behind him. Except they are moving up instead of down. Did someone put the disk in the wrong way up? As for the song, all I can say is it’s a bit flat, though not as flat as the singer. Please make it stop.
Serbia - qualified
Hungary - qualified
Belarus
An earnest guy belting out ‘Time is like thunder, ha ha!’ Er, OK then. Meanwhile a moody girl shows off her violin skills. It’s all a bit Phantom.
Russia - qualified
Europe has another ad break, and Mel chats with the Australian entry Guy Sebastian. Then it’s back for…
Denmark - qualified
Albania
She’s got a glittery cloak, a quavery voice and a rather casual relationship to the correct key. I’m not sure she’s really into her performance. At one point she stretches out her arm for an emotional ‘reaching out’ move, and it turns into a cheeky wave to the camera. What next, mid-song selfies?
Romania - qualified
Georgia - qualified
And that’s all tonight’s acts. For what it’s worth, if I’d been voting I would have gone for Belgium, Serbia or Denmark, largely because they were a nice change from the parade of sylph-like women in long dresses and anguished expressions singing moody songs with shouty choruses.
Back to Conchita in the green room, then we get a clip of Mel working in a Vienna cake shop (she evidently can’t stay away from cake) and schmoozing with some of the contestants. After this we get to meet our entry, Electro Velvet, who Mel memorably describes as ‘The Great Gatsby meets Tron’. We have a quick recap of 60 years of Eurovision with Scott, and then a chat with ‘Doctor Eurovision’, before our three hosts attempt to explain why the heck Australia is suddenly eligible to enter (short version: they really, really wanted to). And we’re given a quick preview of the acts who have automatically qualified for the final: the traditional ‘Big 5’ of UK, Spain, Italy, Germany and France (because we put most of the money in), last year’s winner Austria (because it would be a bit embarrassing if the hosts didn’t get through) and, er, Australia, because, oh heck, why not?
Finally the results are in, and the ten qualifiers are
Albania
Armenia
Russia
Romania
Hungary
Greece
Estonia
Georgia
Serbia
Belgium
That’s it for Semi-Final 1. Time to recharge our glasses for Semi-Final 2.
Posted by Ariel (# 58) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Gee D:
Given that this is Aust's first year in the event, it's amazing just how little attention it's drawing here. Not on the SMH website (or the ABC News one either), no front page on other papers, no sounds of people talking about it on the trains.
Funny you should say that. This afternoon I overheard an Australian colleague explaining enthusiastically how it's really big in Australia and everybody is very into it.
I wouldn't have expected it had made much impact on the national consciousness, but maybe some of the expats over here have caught the Eurovision bug.
Posted by Gill H (# 68) on
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Semi 2 - my review
And we’re back with the scary Eye of Sauron portal stage. The three hosts are a bit more glam tonight in their sparkly dresses, while Conchita has kept it simple in a black trouser suit which only has one sleeve. Surely the budget could have stretched to two?
More entrants invited on stage, more Mozart dancing, yada yada. The whole crowd are encouraged to yell ‘Good morning Australia’, and then the hosts check the pyrotechnics and the wind machine. Sorry, is this the tech run? But fortunately everything works and we’re straight into…
Lithuania – they qualified, so I’ll review them at the final
Ireland
I really want to like Ireland. It’s a wistful 6/8 piano ballad, written and sung by a young teenage girl who also plays the piano. Sadly her voice is rather grating, and the song just sends me back to the Baileys. Sorry Ireland, but at least you didn’t send Jeward this time.
San Marino
A sweet teenage duo who look like they’ve come straight from High School Musical. Ominously, the Deathstar appears to be in the sky behind them for some reason. The song features out of tune singing, a sudden switch to a completely different song half way through, and most worryingly, a talky bit. Should be enough to ensure they don’t get through.
Montenegro - qualified
Malta
The second entry this year whose song is called ‘Warrior’. She’s not as goth as the previous one, though there is still plenty of black leather in evidence. It’s yet another ballad with the obligatory snoozy verse and strident chorus. Next please.
Conchita in green room. Green is the colour of hope? Envy surely?
Norway - qualified
Portugal
A girl in a long blue cloak and black patent trousers, which is an interesting combo to say the least. More strident singing of yet another mid-tempo ballad, but at least she is singing in her own language this time.
Czech Republic
Taking inspiration from last year, there’s lush Bond-esque orchestration aplenty. A black clad duo emote to a doomy 6/8 piano ballad. At one point the girl throws off her shoes. Well, it’s been a long evening.
Israel – qualified
Latvia - qualified
Azerbaijan - qualified
Iceland
She’s dressed as a pink fairy, but she should have saved some magic for her singing voice. She belts out a song about letting go – but don’t worry, it’s not THAT one. I think she’s letting go of the tune though.
We take a break for a quick look at Electro Velvet, then back with:
Sweden - qualified
Switzerland
Seriously, aren’t we over Twilight by now? A dramatic girl in a blue cloak, which soon comes off to reveal a sparkly white dress. She sings in a stark winter landscape, surrounded inexplicably by men with drums. Like Iceland, she sings about how she’s learned to let it go – evidently another Frozen fan.
Cyprus - qualified
Slovenia - qualified
Poland - qualified
And that’s all the acts tonight. We vote for Cyprus and Israel – neither of which I have described above, but both of which have endeared themselves to me for entirely different reasons. You’ll have to wait till Saturday to find out exactly why.
After the usual green room bits, interviews and previous, the hosts show a montage of voting gaffes from years gone by, ending with the comment ‘How’s that for Throwback Thursday?’ Indeed. And so to the announcement of the qualifiers, who are:
Lithuania
Poland
Slovenia
Sweden
Norway
Montenegro
Cyprus
Azerbaijan
Latvia
Israel
Time to clear up and prepare for the marathon of Saturday night. Gute nacht, alles.
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
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Thank you GillH. Your round up was as witty and concise as ever.
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Gee D:
Given that this is Aust's first year in the event, it's amazing just how little attention it's drawing here. Not on the SMH website (or the ABC News one either), no front page on other papers, no sounds of people talking about it on the trains. Someone has probably done a fair sum of money on it.
What on earth are you talking about? The ABC News website has had Eurovision-related stories all week!
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on
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quote:
Originally posted by orfeo:
quote:
Originally posted by Gee D:
Given that this is Aust's first year in the event, it's amazing just how little attention it's drawing here. Not on the SMH website (or the ABC News one either), no front page on other papers, no sounds of people talking about it on the trains. Someone has probably done a fair sum of money on it.
What on earth are you talking about? The ABC News website has had Eurovision-related stories all week!
Other broadcasting networks are available (as They say).
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Sioni Sais:
Other broadcasting networks are available (as They say).
Um... which rather misses the point that ABC was the one that Gee D specifically cited.
Posted by Mili (# 3254) on
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Eurovision is pretty big in Melbourne, though I think it's only become a thing in the last decade or so. It's been showing here for 30 years, but previously was mainly watched by people who were born in or had parents from the competing countries. I remember my Serbian/Croatian friend (who now supports Serbia) complaining about Ireland always winning in the 1990s.
Posted by Kittyville (# 16106) on
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I'm with Orfeo - I've seen plenty of print and online coverage, including latterly about how much SBS might have had to bung the European Broadcasting Union to get Guy a guernsey.
I'm another one for whom Eurovision isn't really Eurovision without Terry Wogan.
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
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Ready.
The goulash is Hungarian.
The Tiramisu is Italian.
The wine is Spanish
The cheese is French and Dutch.
The crackers are British.
Shame That Ireland are not in to go with the whiskey.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Snacks on, TV on, coconut water present, whiskey present, antipasto present, oatabix present - eurovision is go !
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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"Act like a woman, and vote !" ![[Cool]](cool.gif)
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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OMG the Slovenian woman's voice is dreadful !
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
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The mime is even worse.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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I do prefer my violinists with an instrument
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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"When the blood dries, I pledge to rebuild my village more beautiful than before, but don't forget" not terribly upbeat ...
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
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At last, a Euro fun song from Israel. There are pitching problems, but ho cares.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Estonia look good, but not too taken with the sound. Us next ![[Smile]](smile.gif)
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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Kind of fun. But Eurovision?
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Ooh that was rather fun, we might be in with a shot.
(The subtitles were fun, skiddie-dee-dee-do-wop indeed)
[ 23. May 2015, 19:41: Message edited by: Doublethink. ]
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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If he'd avoided the Jungle Book section...
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Do we think the Armenian's "don't deny" is a dig at the Turks ?
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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I may have fallen asleep
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
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This reminds me of another song, but I can't place it. Any guesses? (Lithuania).
Like the Mumford lite sound.
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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I'm definitely falling asleep
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Serbia is so going to win.
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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Even better if she could project...
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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(Eat more coffee Garasu.)
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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I feel starting a song with "I did something terrible when I was a little boy" and then never saying what is creative cowardice.
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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At this time of night?
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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And re the latest... 'if the people could sing...'
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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O course, how could you live with yourself if you missed a second ?
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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Cute. But best song? I think not.
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
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I'm coming to this late and after a big Oz red (have they been on yet?). There seems to be a chap in a rather shabby T shirt accompanied by a lot of drawings.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Currently, cyprus, oz still to come.
(Rocking the geek chique)
[ 23. May 2015, 20:04: Message edited by: Doublethink. ]
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
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Right. Buddy Holly lookalike but without the excitement.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Bit whiny this one - insufficient bop.
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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I'm reconsidering Sweden...
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
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Totally bop-free I would say.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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I am unclear if he didn't arrive at a location, or suffered a more intimate failure.
(Aha Oz next.)
[ 23. May 2015, 20:07: Message edited by: Doublethink. ]
Posted by Rev per Minute (# 69) on
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Loved the Serbs, hated the UK, thought the Swede was good but the staging was too much.. The Cypriot seemed to want to return to the 50s. Wish Ireland were here tonight, they would have a huge backing after today. Now for the wizards of Oz...!
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Oz get points for a funky hat.
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
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Bit Pop by the yard is it not?
Posted by Karl: Liberal Backslider (# 76) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Doublethink.:
Oz get points for a funky hat.
But nowt for owt else. Terrible.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Not enjoying Oz as much as I had been led to expect - bit nasally mono-note and the lyrics were a bit minimalist.
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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Personally: horrible. Could get somewhere.
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
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OTOH, it looks good next to Belgium.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Have sex with your enemy and die tomorrow ? I've had better offers ...
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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No.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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I count four metaphors hammered together ...
Posted by Rev per Minute (# 69) on
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Love Belgium, takes me back to the 80s! Pity that Loďc moved like he had bad constipation, and needed a lie-down to recover from the effort. Austria now appear to be channelling Gary Barlow' in music and his accountant in burning all the evidence
[ 23. May 2015, 20:18: Message edited by: Rev per Minute ]
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Austrian singer's flirtation with the camera is making my skin crawl.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Rev per Minute:
Love Belgium, takes me back the 80s!
*backs slowly away from the Rev whilst smiling and nodding politely*
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
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The piano's on fire!
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
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Power ballad meets barbecue.
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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Anything but
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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I feel Greece should have done a reprise of "Money, Money, Money"
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
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Nana Moussaka.
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
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She is trying hard to make this song sound interesting. However the song cannot be salvages despite a strong performance.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Lyrics say she wanted to be rescued from a "firing hell" - I see a ghosst of Alan Sugar
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
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Yes. Well. The Tom Jones of the Balkans?
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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The Montenegran has lost his woman to the sea - or possibly fog.
(Relying on red button translation here.)
[ 23. May 2015, 20:28: Message edited by: Doublethink. ]
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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That catsuit is many levels of wrong.
(As is the screen making disappearing penis shapes behind her ![[Ultra confused]](graemlins/confused2.gif)
)
[ 23. May 2015, 20:32: Message edited by: Doublethink. ]
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Shame the Polish song isn't better - gotta respect the singer, but the song doesn't do her justice.
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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I'd love to be nice about it...
But it just wasn't very good. Was it?
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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No it was crap. (But better than this offering from Lativa - which is basically a migraine realised on stage.)
[ 23. May 2015, 20:39: Message edited by: Doublethink. ]
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
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That is one stupid frock, Latvia.
[ 23. May 2015, 20:40: Message edited by: Firenze ]
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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Sadly, this may be worse
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
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Is the design on he costume or a tattoo -Latvia.
I'm getting fed up of the staging in this.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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(Crosspost) Nice breast tattoo though.
[ 23. May 2015, 20:40: Message edited by: Doublethink. ]
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Well Romania are already better - and having the confidence to sing in their own language.
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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I'm going to assume that appreciating this depends on understanding the words...
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Red button gives you subtitles.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Liking the golden boots.
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
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There goes the cloak. How predictable.
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
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Not quite the same thing.
Posted by Rev per Minute (# 69) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Doublethink.:
Red button gives you subtitles.
Finally, a chance to translate Graham Norton into English.
Hungary is being 'A little Peace' (1982?) all over again
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Tree full o kalishnikovs - original staging ...
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
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Morticia Addams in hot pants.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
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Now this is what I expect of eurovision
Woman wiv crowbits and a metal headpiece being incomprehensible
(In case any one was wondering "oximated" means to be converted to an oxime which is:
quote:
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxime
An oxime is a chemical compound belonging to the imines, with the general formula R1R2C=N O H, where R1 is an organic side-chain and R2 may be hydrogen, forming an aldoxime, or another organic group, forming a ketoxime. O-substituted oximes form a closely related family of compounds.
[ 23. May 2015, 20:57: Message edited by: Doublethink. ]
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on
:
In her dreams...
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
:
A bit goth.
I actually like it, or at least the percussion.
Of course my liking it means second half of the results board. (Georgia)
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
:
Another Eurovision must - dancing inappropriate to the song.
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
:
Singer totally upstaged by cavorting gymnasts.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
"I'll go 'till I'm numb" - classy, not.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
You know Europe is annoyed with you if the Eurovision audience have to be warned not to boo your song.
#cough# crimea #cough#
[ 23. May 2015, 21:04: Message edited by: Doublethink. ]
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
:
A song about tolerance from Russia - 12 points from Ukraine then.
Posted by Rev per Minute (# 69) on
:
Russian Federation appears to have stolen a Bonnie Tyler ballad, possibly during the days of the Cold War (the first one, not the one they're building up to now). A second Weksh element in tonight's competition?
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
This song is making the feminist in me curl up and weep.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
Right, time to make your bets ...
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
:
Where were the ethnic instruments this year? I know they never win, but I like to hear local styles, which with the exception of Italy's opera was absent this year.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
Were there any in the semis ? I didn't watch them.
Posted by Karl: Liberal Backslider (# 76) on
:
Wasn't sure if Italy was trying to be Three Tenors or Boyzone.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
Am liking the interval act so far, (got my vote in already !)
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
:
Speaking s a percussionist, can I vote for this?
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
Lol - that was a man with serious teeth
[ 23. May 2015, 21:33: Message edited by: Doublethink. ]
Posted by Rev per Minute (# 69) on
:
quote:
Originally posted by Firenze:
Morticia Addams in hot pants.
Uncle Fester was one of the percussionists. Where is Gomez?
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
:
The junior winner is better than three quarters of the performers on this show,
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
So if Serbia gets 10 or more I get a drink ...
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
*swig*
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
Political voting slightly less marked this year.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
Nigella wearing an extra nipple, oddly.
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
:
There seems to be this thing for biblical necklines (low and behold) and particularly the boob-ribbon tops.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
I am liking your euphimism, not heard that one before.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
Sweden !
Posted by Firenze (# 619) on
:
A favourite expression of my mother's. Her other was 'a neckline that low you could see the tops of her stockings'.
Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on
:
I feel sorry for Austria - null points
Posted by Ariel (# 58) on
:
It would have been a lot easier to watch if they'd scrapped that stupid onscreen Twitter feed which kept repeating inane comments and made the voting panel too small to read.
I liked Italy's entry and would have liked to see that win.
Posted by Athrawes (# 9594) on
:
Can someone tell me where Australia came? Guy Sebastian said he was worried that if he came last, when he got to Melbourne customs they would say, " You embarrassed us. You can't come in!" I would hate to think that happened.
Posted by Kittyville (# 16106) on
:
He came fifth.
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
:
I didn't get up early enough to vote. I did make notes, though...
SLOVENIA – So few things on stage, yet so many of them were pointless.
FRANCE – It’s an unfortunate programming glitch to have a proper singer with a proper song this early in the competition. Rousing emotional high points don’t work as well in slot 2, sadly.
ISRAEL – If your only real asset is that you’re a fairly good-looking bunch, starting in darkness is poor strategy.
ESTONIA – I have a sense I just witnessed a quite good song being ruined by a poor performance.
UNITED KINGDOM – Novelty acts require energy. This had none.
ARMENIA – Hmm. Clearly they’re going for the musical vote, but that song had the sort of shape better suited to a musical. Too unusual in its structure to communicate to an audience in 3 minutes.
LITHUANIA – You know, that wasn’t amazing but it certainly wasn’t bad. Upbeat and well sung.
SERBIA – The singer was okay, but the song was poor and the staging was abysmal.
NORWAY – Intriguing. But possibly too strange to be a big hit. Given the atmosphere they were going for, I was distracted by his good looks and her slight resemblance to Lorde.
SWEDEN – Okay, I didn’t like the first verse down low, but after that... killer chorus hook, very clever animation and a very sexy man in leather pants.
CYPRUS – I can hear the sound of millions people saying “aw, that was nice” and then never remembering this again.
AUSTRALIA – I am so pleased by that. Even though his brand of pop is not something that I’d listen to regularly, Guy Sebastian is a damn fine performer and that was first-class professional performing.
BELGIUM – Wow. That was a star in the making. Killer voice, and... PERSONALITY! Yes yes yes.
AUSTRIA – I’m deeply worried now. That was the third song in a row that I really quite enjoyed. Am I just experiencing a joint Australia-Belgium afterglow from my two ‘home ‘countries? Nope, I think that was classic traditional songwriting. However, say no to cruelty to pianos.
GREECE – Generic power ballad which should mildly satisfy everybody with a respectable mid-table finish.
MONTENEGRO – Well done on actually having a bit of local personality, and a good performance. I’m not convinced by the transitions though.
GERMANY – Basically that’s a very solid pop song. But, while she’s a good singer, I suspect there wasn’t the zing to elevate it into gaining lots of votes.
POLAND – Thoroughly average in an inoffensive way.
LATVIA – Look, I don’t know that I instantly loved it, but I’m seriously impressed. When the singer is also the composer and you get something with way more individuality than most entries, it’s worth noting for future reference.
ROMANIA – It’s quite possible the lyrics were relatively meaningful. It’s a pity I don’t know, because the music on its own was thoroughly middle-of-the-road.
SPAIN – They can expect a call from Madonna’s lawyers for using various ideas from the song “Frozen” and degrading them.
HUNGARY – Good. But not great. Even though it hits emotional buttons, it doesn’t quite have that special something.
GEORGIA – I was prepared to hate this. I didn’t, but the big problem is she did the entire song at full vocal throttle. She needs to learn from Latvia how to vary her tone.
AZERBAIJAN – You’d think something with wolf-dancing in it would have a lot of personality, but no.
RUSSIA – The kind of power anthem that puts you in serious Eurovision contention. Yes, it’s designed to tick boxes, but at least it did it well.
ALBANIA – I happened to catch this one in the semifinals. She was out of key then, she’s out of key now. Did no-one in Albania spot this excruciating tendency before?
ITALY – Putting a Classical sense of timing against a drumbeat is a recipe for making my ears hurt.
Ones that didn't make my ears hurt: France, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, Australia, Belgium, Austria, Montenegro, Germany, Latvia, Hungary, Russia
I think my vote would have gone to Belgium.
[ 24. May 2015, 02:30: Message edited by: orfeo ]
Posted by Snags (# 15351) on
:
Well, that was a weird one.
UK did about as poorly as I'd expect - we never seem to get that what goes over well is something tending towards power ballad with lyrics that are effectively a simplified self-help book on how we're all lovely and wonderful really.
As to the rest ... dear heavens above. I can only assume that this whole "austerity" thing has depressed nearly the whole of Europe. What a tedious, dull, earnest, misery-fest (with a few exceptions, Sweden being one of them).
Where was the camp? Where was the fun? Where was the slightly bonkers (Georgia's successful transformation of an attractive woman into a weird looking goth extra from Mad Max excepted)? We were all struggling to stay awake through most of it ![[Frown]](frown.gif)
On the upside, there were a handful of songs that worked in their own right as not bad pop songs, but otherwise }yawnsville{
And as to Russia doing so well ... do me a favour, that was never on the strength of the song. Although not as outrageous as Latvia getting anything at all.
Thought it was a bit harsh on Germany (assuming political) and entirely fair on Austria to get Nil Point (although part of me wonders if Austria deliberately put a totally crap song in in some gesture of goodwill).
Posted by Ariel (# 58) on
:
I like a song to be sung with a bit of feeling and passion, but Albania's was more like a scream.
The politics were interesting - some of the traditional alliances seemed a lot weaker this time with one or two of the Baltic states not voting for Russia at all.
Not sure about Graham Norton as a replacement for Terry Wogan. It all seemed a bit polite and lacking in humour. I mean, good that he was mostly polite but Terry was more amusing.
Posted by Meike (# 3006) on
:
quote:
Originally posted by Snags:
Thought it was a bit harsh on Germany (assuming political).
What have we done to piss off Australia?
At least one point from at least one country would have been nice. Oh well...
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
:
quote:
Originally posted by Snags:
Where was the camp? Where was the fun? Where was the slightly bonkers (Georgia's successful transformation of an attractive woman into a weird looking goth extra from Mad Max excepted)?
I saw it observed during the week that the reintroduction of juries in 2009 has affected the entries, with fewer novelty acts and more people trying to construct performances with musical merit.
Personally I think this is a good thing. Your mileage may vary if you're more into Finnish monster masks or Russian grandmothers.
Of course, much was made last year of last year's win by a bearded lady, but the reality was Conchita Wurst had a decent song and absolutely killer stage presence (which was only confirmed by this year's performance).
I think the UK was trying for 'fun' this year, but it fun planned by committee. France went for crazy fun last year and it was God-awful.
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on
:
quote:
Originally posted by orfeo:
quote:
Originally posted by Snags:
Where was the camp? Where was the fun? Where was the slightly bonkers (Georgia's successful transformation of an attractive woman into a weird looking goth extra from Mad Max excepted)?
I saw it observed during the week that the reintroduction of juries in 2009 has affected the entries, with fewer novelty acts and more people trying to construct performances with musical merit.
Personally I think this is a good thing. Your mileage may vary if you're more into Finnish monster masks or Russian grandmothers.
OTOH the inclusion of Australia into a European (and close to Europe) Competition was a sign that the organisers were looking for bonkers, at least for this anniversary edition, and this is not what we got.
PS. What has Nigella to do with music?
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
:
![[Roll Eyes]](rolleyes.gif)
Clearly you've never heard of the concept of expansion, despite the constant growth of the competition over the decades.
You remind me of the sports fans here who can't cope with the fact that the rugby league and Australian rules have expanded and are no longer just Sydney and Melbourne teams, respectively. Heck, the "national" rugby league even extends to New Zealand these days, and they've come perilously close to winning it.
I just love how you threw in "close to Europe" there, as you hastily realised it hasn't actually been a competition restricted to Europe for decades.
[ 24. May 2015, 13:44: Message edited by: orfeo ]
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
:
PS Were you not paying attention last year when Australia had a trial run? Nobody here who's at all Eurovision-savvy was remotely surprised by the invitation to compete, because the prep had happened 12 months earlier with Jessica Mauboy's performance.
Posted by Doc Tor (# 9748) on
:
I was forced to watch all of this - at a friend's 50th birthday party and his missus is a huge Eurovision fan.
Most of the music was entirely meh (though kudos to Belgium for actually entering a song). The voting was, however, utterly fascinating, and genuinely tested my ability to interpret current geopolitical trends.
By half way, I thought Sweden would probably win, due to the Russians running out of ex-Soviet countries they're still friends with. The Baltic states always used to be 12 points in the bag for the Russians, with the Nordics picking up 8s and 10s, but (iirc) those big points went to Sweden instead, with Russia scoring low.
No love for Germany, though. Mrs M's probably already phoned Putin to commiserate.
Posted by Anselmina (# 3032) on
:
quote:
Originally posted by Ariel:
Not sure about Graham Norton as a replacement for Terry Wogan. It all seemed a bit polite and lacking in humour. I mean, good that he was mostly polite but Terry was more amusing.
He was funnier last year. And maybe the depressive atmosphere of many of the minor-key songs (my village is burning, I'm quite possibly a childhood serial killer, oh God my life is worthless etc) didn't give as much scope for humour? However, he was rather pleasingly cutting about Montenegro-man leaving his nation in short supply re: botox. Graham 'Oh, I think he's thrilled with that. Or maybe sad. Or perhaps angry....'
LOVED Belgium. That young man was excellent.
I thought Russia's song - while formulaic - was very good indeed and very well sung. Surprized that some of those who would normally have voted high for Russia had they entered a wounded warthog farting in mud didn't take the opportunity of responding as sycophantically as usual when a decent song was on offer. Maybe the tide is on the turn for Putin.
Felt sorry for the UK. Was a nice ditty. But as someone observed above, a low-energy performance. And strangely too quirky, but not quirky enough to stand out, compared to the rather more mainstreamish, poppy stuff that did a lot better.
I think Sweden deserved their win. Not a particularly Swedish or even European sound. But then that's probably not the point of the competition any more, is it? Nicely constructed, well sung offering, catchy-ish. And I thought the staging was really sweet, different and effective.
I don't think the question about Australia winning was answered? If they had won, they would have had the choice of choosing any of the other countries to host the next competition. There was no question of Australia as next host - tho I'm sure they would've been fab! Good entry, too.
Posted by Gill H (# 68) on
:
The Final – my review
Guten Abend Europe! We’re welcomed by the traditional Eurovision fanfare, played live by the Vienna Philharmonic, who follow it up with some Mozart (naturally). Much is made of circles – people with flaming torches, ballet dancers with swirling skirts, people flying balloons. It’s beginning to look like a series of BBC1 idents. Eventually a glitterball drops through the ceiling, and we see Conchita in a sparkly pink trouser suit. She flies over the audience, because, well, why not? And then we have the Vienna Boys’ Choir, who have been joined by a lot of girls too.
Then there’s a fun little film created by people from various countries using social media, which is very cleverly put together.
Our hosts tell us the contest is being shown live in China this year. How much bigger can this thing get? But anyway, on with the proceedings, and we start with..
Slovenia
Sub-Amy Winehouse singing from a girl wearing headphones, accompanied by a rather creepy guy on the piano. The song is a blend of ‘I will survive’ and Pachelbel’s Canon, featuring a very enthusiastic air violin solo. As Scott Mills pointed out in the semi-final, she sounds not unlike a Munchkin.
France
As usual, they stick to what they do best. This is a heartfelt classic chanson which appears to reference the Normandy landings. The formidable singer is joined by drummers eventually, but she doesn’t really need them, she holds the stage on her own. Sadly it will probably be just too French to travel far.
Israel
This guy is evidently Israel’s Justin Timberlake, only with rather improbable gold footwear. He sings ‘Golden Boy’ which tells how he’s been dumped and is going out to party. And boy, can he party, Israeli style. Ethnic dancing with a few cool moves thrown in. This is enormous fun, and features the best lyric so far: “And before I leave, let me show you Tel Aviv.” In a year of so many entries, this is pure joy and a definite candidate for my vote.
Estonia
A vaguely surf-rock sound with moody guitars and snarling vocals. A duo who have an onstage row, including the classic lyrics ‘Why didn't you wake me up?’ and ‘All alone lying here naked and staring at the phone’. Dodgy lyrics and even dodgier tuning.
UK
What do you get if you combine Charleston, breakdancing, back flips and illuminated clothing? Well, Electro Velvet, that’s what. They give it their all, and the backing dancers work particularly hard. Whatever the outcome, you can bet it will feature in the next series of Strictly.
Armenia
This is evidently set in the Armenian version of Middle Earth. It’s all chiming bells and faux-classical warbling. Bit gloomy for me.
Lithuania
A chirpy duo with a jolly country song. Once they’ve got everyone clapping along, the song stops so everyone can kiss. Not only that, we’ve got two same-sex kisses going on between the backing singers. This being Eurovision, no-one raises an eyebrow, not least because they’ve had them all waxed anyway.
Serbia
The singer is a Tracy Turnblad lookalike but dressed for Phantom, as are the guys in masks behind her – despite their Les Mis flags Obviously a musicals mash-up. She sings an upbeat anthem of empowerment, which all goes a bit techno – no bad thing. Shame she goes out of tune in the shouty bit.
Norway
Why are all the girls trying to sound like Amy Winehouse? This is a brooding song full of mystery, featuring a man who is, so he says, a monster. Unfortunately he doesn’t transform in the middle of the song. It does eventually kick up a gear, but too late for me.
Sweden
A striking young lad sings ‘Heroes’, a kind of Avicii-style dance number with a few country overtones. It has a strong anthemic chorus and is very radio-friendly, but the really eye-popping element here is the staging. He throws animated paint around and dances with a cartoon boy. It’s kind of like The Wall meets Purple Ronnie.
Cyprus
He may look like Elvis Costello, but the song is pure McCartney. An understated guitar ballad with some lovely swoony chords in the chorus. No pyrotechnics, no fancy staging, no shouting, just a heartfelt performance of a sweet song. It’ll probably sink without trace, but I like it anyway.
Australia
This might best be described as ‘Down Under Funk’. It’s a Bruno Mars style slice of fun performed in front of a street scene with lights which eventually explode. It’s actually pretty good, and nice to have something with a bit of oomph for a change.
Belgium
Hey, you can sing Rolling in the Deep to this one! Go on, try it. The singer is a young chap in black who sings about wanting to ‘rap bap bap tonight’. Well, don’t we all? Despite trying to rip his own face off at one point, he delivers a solid performance of a quirky little song.
Austria
If Cyprus was a McCartney pastiche, these guys are full-on Wings clones. The lead singer’s copied Conchita’s beard and hair, but fortunately not the dress. At one point he sets the piano on fire – and no, that’s not a metaphor. Sort of Live and Let Fry.
Greece
Another leggy blonde in a long silver dress, only just held together with tape. Evidently inspired by last year’s winner, she belts out the ballad ‘One Last Breath’ in front of a large plug hole which turns into the set of Stargate for no apparent reason.
Montenegro
Gipsy violins, floaty choreography and a girl with half a ton of silver on her head.
There’s some folky dancing that features lots of hopping, and a bizarre key change where you least expect it.
Germany
Anne Sophie is a lady in a black catsuit who poses about the stage, slightly too far to the right of the circular light behind her throughout. Yet another Winehouse wannabe, or should that be Bierkeller?
Poland
Yet another blonde in a long white dress. She uses a wheelchair, which means there’s been a bit of set dressing needed in order to get her impossibly long train to float around her. In contrast to last year’s industrious and skimpily-dressed Polish ladies, this year’s entry is very decorous and a bit dull. Nice fabric softener advert going on behind her, though.
Latvia
A woman in a long red dress with a huge skirt, singing about ‘Love Injected’. Hmm. There’s a Cleopatra air about her, and she throws in a mixture of Tai Chi and vogueing to liven things up. Sounds very Bjork to me.
Romania
A bald bloke dressed in black with an enormous brooch, heading up a troupe of singers who evidently don’t expect to be on stage long, as they’ve brought their luggage with them. Graham explains that they run a charity supporting abandoned children – hence the suitcases. Unfortunately their message gets lost in the Celtic wispy pipes and meandering tune.
Spain
Ooh, it’s Red Riding Hood! She pulls off the red cloak to reveal a glittery white dress and scary silver slave boots. Despite the boots, she pulls off a pretty good showdance routine with a topless guy.
Hungary
Her name is Boggie and she’s a brunette in a long dark red dress. To a background of runic circles (or is it Gallifreyan writing?), she sings a gentle song about peace. Behind her on the screen, the BBC1 globe appears, and then some guns turn into a tree – worst Transformer ever. Nice harmonies, good sentiment but a little forgettable.
Georgia
A scary goth lady singing ‘Warrior’ with bird feathers on her shoulders. She looks like the missing Avenger to me.
Azerbaijan
Forget about the dull song and the even duller singer. It’s all about the contemporary dancers here. ‘Hour of the Wolf’ features a man and woman prowling around the stage in outfits that are meant to suggest wolves. The guy is topless and looks more like the only wolf in the village. The dancing is impressive, but wasted on this.
Russia
A girl in a big white dress singing about peace. Obviously, it’s … Russia? OK then. This epic ballad is called ‘A million voices’ and let’s just say for those who like this sort of thing, this is the sort of thing they like.
Albania
She’s got a glittery cloak, a quavery voice, and a rather casual relationship to the correct key. I’m not sure she’s really into her performance. I’m certainly not. In fact it’s hurting my ears.
Italy
Well, this is pretty much what Italy does best – three chaps in dinner suits doing ‘popera’ and singing about a ‘Grande Amor’. One of them has a deeply disturbing moustache and another looks like Rick Moranis. But at least these guys can sing in tune, and they deliver a polished performance.
Once all the entries have sung, we’re flung straight into a storm of percussion, choir and brass instruments, which is impressive but wanders all over the place. Then Conchita gives us a mini concert, and we’re introduced to the winner of the Junior Eurovision, a young Italian lad who gives a quick demonstration of how some of the contestants should have sung – ie, in tune. Then there’s a brief whizz through Eurovision history, and it’s on to the voting. Of which, perhaps the less said, the better. We get 1 point from Malta, 1 from Ireland and 3 from San Marino, and, er, that’s it. Sweden is the runaway winner, and we’re left to pick up the pieces and console ourselves that at least we got more than the hosts.
And that’s it for another year. Gute Nacht and Wiedersehen.
Posted by leo (# 1458) on
:
Sweden's win was well-deserved. The staging, effects and choreography were brilliant.
Posted by Snags (# 15351) on
:
quote:
Originally posted by orfeo:
Personally I think this is a good thing. Your mileage may vary if you're more into Finnish monster masks or Russian grandmothers.
No, I'm largely with you on preferring some musical merit. Personally I didn't like the UK entry - OK fluff, but too little and too lacklustre - but a good 75% of the songs were slow, doom laden and never got going. And weren't that great musically. I'm happy to leave the mental stuff behind, but would like some energy and upbeat-ness. Or at least a broad spread of style and theme.
That was missing, so much so that Sweden, Australia and a couple of others were real stand-ours. In another context I'd have liked Belgium; it seemed a weird fit for Eurovision to me, very dark. But obviously I'm out of step with a lot of the juries!
If it becomes an actual music contest again I'll actually like it more. It will just take some getting used to.
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
:
quote:
Originally posted by Gill H:
The Final – my review
Great stuff. Some fantastic observations!
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
:
quote:
Originally posted by Snags:
quote:
Originally posted by orfeo:
Personally I think this is a good thing. Your mileage may vary if you're more into Finnish monster masks or Russian grandmothers.
No, I'm largely with you on preferring some musical merit. Personally I didn't like the UK entry - OK fluff, but too little and too lacklustre - but a good 75% of the songs were slow, doom laden and never got going. And weren't that great musically. I'm happy to leave the mental stuff behind, but would like some energy and upbeat-ness. Or at least a broad spread of style and theme.
That was missing, so much so that Sweden, Australia and a couple of others were real stand-ours. In another context I'd have liked Belgium; it seemed a weird fit for Eurovision to me, very dark. But obviously I'm out of step with a lot of the juries!
If it becomes an actual music contest again I'll actually like it more. It will just take some getting used to.
You're probably right that not many songs this year rose above mid-tempo. I think a lot of songs that tried to 'grow' just weren't amongst the better entries - I'd be hard pressed, a day and a bit later, to remember the musical differences between Slovenia, Serbia, Greece, Poland, Spain, and Albania. Except to say that the Albanian woman was constantly out of key.
I probably didn't notice as much as you because I'm quite happy with dark and edgy if it's pulled off. Belgium was awesome, and the verses of Latvia were dripping with atmosphere (although her chorus was a little too repetitive and shouty).
It's not just a song competition but a performance competition, and to me that's what really made a small number of entries stand out. It's about marrying together song, singer and staging. To me, the clear voting gap between the top 6 and the rest reflected the fact that those 6 had the clearest vision of what they were doing, not that they necessarily had the best songs. The professionalism of acts like Sweden and Australia was top-notch.
I noticed that Norway actually won a separate composition award, and that makes sense to me, but the staging just fell flat.
Posted by Snags (# 15351) on
:
I have no problem with dark and edgy either, trust me. Eurovision is an aberration in my normal musical context. I've also been watching it on and off for 40+ years, so have some history of expectation and context, beyond the standard Brit affectionate derision. So you can stop patronising me any time you like ![[Razz]](tongue.gif)
I still think that this year's finalists were, overall, uniform, mildly depressed and dull in an exceptional way. I'm sure there's a nice study on the link between Eurovision style and socio-economic backdrop if only one could get the funding. Ditto the UK's perversely ambivalent relationship with Europe as modelled by our approach to the contest versus most of our European compatriots. It's salutary how many countries put up known groups who are popular, and we generally wheel out specially concocted novelty acts or names past their prime who already have a giggle factor (with the odd honourable exception) because somehow taking part is beneath a 'real' artist. Yet we still get humpy at a low score.
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
:
I saw a UK article, post-final, criticising the UK selection process and comparing it to the Swedish one.
The primary criticism was that the UK picks a song, then a performer, then someone to plan the staging, and it all ends up being disjointed because the elements are considered in isolation and don't come together until the last week.
Whereas the Swedes pit complete acts against each other in a whole lot of rounds of competition. By the time they get to Eurovision they are already honed professionals.
[ 25. May 2015, 08:56: Message edited by: orfeo ]
Posted by Snags (# 15351) on
:
The UK has an awful approach to Eurovision, which I suspect stems from our generally confused and schizophrenic approach to Europe as a whole. Anyone who doesn't come at it from a slightly smug and superior dying-age-of-empire position is viewed with deep suspicion. It's a terribly British bit of self-destruction :/
Posted by Pomona (# 17175) on
:
quote:
Originally posted by orfeo:
I saw a UK article, post-final, criticising the UK selection process and comparing it to the Swedish one.
The primary criticism was that the UK picks a song, then a performer, then someone to plan the staging, and it all ends up being disjointed because the elements are considered in isolation and don't come together until the last week.
Whereas the Swedes pit complete acts against each other in a whole lot of rounds of competition. By the time they get to Eurovision they are already honed professionals.
They also have the Melodifestivalen, a big outdoor concert where all the potential acts perform. That seems like a great idea to me.
The problem seems to be that the UK have such a hard time taking it even semi-seriously that nobody but novelty acts (just bad rather than so bad it's good) or second-rate singers ever attempt. It's a shame because the past few years have had some good songs courtesy of other countries - surely Conchita shows you can have performers who are camp/kitschy/fun but also talented and enjoyable to watch.
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
:
I've been listening to the (studio versions) of last year's competition. As previously mentioned it was good enough to inspire me to buy the CD.
And the UK entry last year was pretty good (Molly, "Children of the Universe").
Also, last year does seem to have had a larger proportion of upbeat numbers. But, the top scorers were all ballads*. May well have influenced this year's.
*This year I thought the results made sense. Last year, not so much. Some songs I thought were great did badly, and I everyone liked an Armenian singing "You're Not Alone" over and over and over and over is a mystery to me.
[ 25. May 2015, 21:28: Message edited by: orfeo ]
Posted by Karl: Liberal Backslider (# 76) on
:
quote:
Originally posted by Snags:
I have no problem with dark and edgy either, trust me. Eurovision is an aberration in my normal musical context. I've also been watching it on and off for 40+ years, so have some history of expectation and context, beyond the standard Brit affectionate derision. So you can stop patronising me any time you like
I still think that this year's finalists were, overall, uniform, mildly depressed and dull in an exceptional way. I'm sure there's a nice study on the link between Eurovision style and socio-economic backdrop if only one could get the funding. Ditto the UK's perversely ambivalent relationship with Europe as modelled by our approach to the contest versus most of our European compatriots. It's salutary how many countries put up known groups who are popular, and we generally wheel out specially concocted novelty acts or names past their prime who already have a giggle factor (with the odd honourable exception) because somehow taking part is beneath a 'real' artist. Yet we still get humpy at a low score.
This. In spades. I don't claim to have the best record collection in the world, but it's crammed full of stuff way, way better than the formulaic MoR luke-warm trash-pop that wins Eurovision (this year was no exception). There are pub bands playing the Dog and Duck for a free pint producing better material. We have tons of real talent (not the crap that gets on telly talent shows; real talent) but we have, it seems, not the wit, willingness or capability to put it on Eurovision.
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on
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Eurovision isn't about talent. Neither are talent shows. They are about entertainment. And, good or ill; cheese, drama and train wrecks have massive appeal. They are the logical extension of Pop music, which is never about being the best,* but about appealing to the broadest number of people.
Least Common Denominator.
*there are exceptions, like the Beatles, but largely the point stands
Posted by leo (# 1458) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Snags:
The UK has an awful approach to Eurovision, which I suspect stems from our generally confused and schizophrenic approach to Europe as a whole.
Maybe we should have a referendum about leaving Eurovision.
Posted by Jack o' the Green (# 11091) on
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quote:
Originally posted by Snags:
The UK has an awful approach to Eurovision, which I suspect stems from our generally confused and schizophrenic approach to Europe as a whole.
While I realise this doesn't change your point, I DO wish people wouldn't use the term 'schizophrenic' in this way.
Posted by Snags (# 15351) on
:
quote:
Originally posted by Jack o' the Green:
quote:
Originally posted by Snags:
The UK has an awful approach to Eurovision, which I suspect stems from our generally confused and schizophrenic approach to Europe as a whole.
While I realise this doesn't change your point, I DO wish people wouldn't use the term 'schizophrenic' in this way.
Apologies, didn't even occur to me.
I guess it's one of those words that (for me) derives meaning from context, medical vs common parlance, with only tangential connection between the two but equally legitimate based on dictionary definitions. I shall strive to find an alternative for future reference, though, as I can see how it could irk.
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
:
quote:
Originally posted by lilBuddha:
Eurovision isn't about talent. Neither are talent shows. They are about entertainment. And, good or ill; cheese, drama and train wrecks have massive appeal. They are the logical extension of Pop music, which is never about being the best,* but about appealing to the broadest number of people.
Least Common Denominator.
*there are exceptions, like the Beatles, but largely the point stands
I think you underestimate the talent it takes to BE entertaining.
I've just watched the winning Swedish entry again. Watching the second half, in particular, it's instructive just how many times he hits his spots and connects with the camera - switching between at least 3 different cameras, one of which is on stage with him - while singing live and moving a heck of a lot.
And you've got to say, the cameramen are pretty damn impressive too, although if you look carefully there's one moment where you get a glimpse of a piece of the onstage cameramen as he is scrambling backwards to get out of view before the shot changes.
It's an absolutely first-class professional television performance, with a heck of a lot of different elements coming together to create the complete package.
And I also think you underestimate the talent of the best pop musicians as well. It's not actually that simple to keep things simple - I'm reminded of an interview with Baz Luhrmann when Moulin Rouge was out and he was gnashing teeth over people criticising the story for being too simplistic. "You have no idea how many things we had to take OUT" he cried.
[ 26. May 2015, 23:16: Message edited by: orfeo ]
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
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Let me go further: I don't think you can judge whether someone is "the best" until you identify just what it is you're assessing them for, and consider whether that's in fact what they're trying to do.
This is one of the things that frustrates me about so much commentary on music, and also to some extent on TV and film as well. Not all music is even trying to achieve the same result, and if you try to judge a piece of music against a goal it's not even interested in of course it's going to fail. Even the greatest Classical-era composers wrote different sorts of music.
There was a fairly ridiculous article here on the new Mad Max film the other week. An Australian academic had a big whine about it, complaining about how it pandered to the masses unlike her favourite Australian films... which all turned out to be small-scale psychological dramas. Mad Max is in fact getting a heck of a lot of positive critical reviews for being (apparently) a top-notch action summer blockbuster, because those reviewers are comparing it to other films attempting to be action blockbusters. Complaining that it doesn't have the depth of character insight of a movie where people sit and talk about their problems for 2 hours is just missing the point.
[ 26. May 2015, 23:47: Message edited by: orfeo ]
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on
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OK, orfeo, but nothing you said contradicts what I said.
I did not say there is no talent in Pop music, just that this isn't the focus.
And I am not really a music or movie snob. I try to see things for what they are. Is the Mad Max* comparable to Citizen Kane? No. Do I leave a cinema just as happy after either? Yes.
Eurovision is a spectacle. Good, bad, crazy or indifferent, this is the point of the show.
To further address K;LB's post, the contest can never be what he wishes. Shiny, generic acts, or crazy novelty ones, are what are going to generate the interest for massive audiences.
There is a, probably apocryphal, quote from John Lennon regarding the replacement or Pete Best by Ringo Starr quote:
Pete Best was a better drummer, but Ringo was a better Beatle
Real quote or not, it sums up Pop music.
*The original. Haven't seen the remake yet.
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
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And what I'm saying is: talent for what?
There probably isn't a lot of talent for nuclear physics in pop music, but that isn't the focus.
And I don't think talent "for music" answer the question, because what I'm trying to say is that "music" is not one monolithic thing. I wouldn't even say technical skill is "music", because there are some people who can play all the notes in a piano concerto without really understanding what those notes mean.
[ 27. May 2015, 02:12: Message edited by: orfeo ]
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on
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quote:
Originally posted by orfeo:
And what I'm saying is: talent for what?
Well, you tell me what you think they have talent for.
Singing? Acceptable, good even but not generally spectacular.
Dancing? Good for pop. Better than I can do, but not amazing.
Most pop performers are entertaining and that is all that is necessary. And what any individual enjoys hearing and watching is as valid as what any other person enjoys.
However, if you break down what pop stars do, very few are more than adequate.
There are some. The Beatles, obviously. Michael Jackson, Abba, Prince, U2. There will always be those who last, who have something more.
But pop music, as a whole, loses that in the very process of being popular.
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
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If you're asking what I think the 40 contestants in Eurovision here collectively have a talent for...
Nothing. I think that's one of the reasons why some of them got lots of points and some of them didn't!
They're not a uniform bunch. Some of the ones that wrote their song lacked the ability to perform it. Some of the good performers wouldn't have a clue how to write a song and didn't try to. Et cetera et cetera.
Posted by orfeo (# 13878) on
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PS And even among the ones that did well / impressed me personally, it wasn't at all for the same reasons.
Posted by Banner Lady (# 10505) on
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Having been away the entire weekend in a remote location, I came home to find Australia placed fifth in Eurovision without appearing to actually compete in either of the finals.
What the?
...I guess I will never comprehend very much about the Eurovision song contest....
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