This is a theatrical, cinematic ballad, and I absolutely love it. Gjon’s voice is just on another level- so unique, so vulnerable yet powerful, and the way he transitions from chest voice to head voice effortlessly is extremely impressive. I would like a little more chest voice on the live stage (although this is me being extremely fussy) just to give the song that extra bit of oomph. That said, it’s already very powerful, and I love the instrumental in this- the Chopin-like trills on the piano and the way they fuse perfectly with his voice, and the unpredictability and uncertainty created by the layering. It’s moody and dark, but in a cinematic way, and the atmosphere created almost reminds me of Game of Thrones. This is a very dramatic song, and it shows in the chorus. And then in the bridge, we have these lovely exposed chromatic moments before the big final chorus, but I don’t like the silence before it. It’s too jarring for me, and takes away from the drama. I’m sure the staging will do something to fill this, but I’m reviewing the songs as I hear them, not as I see them. Still, the final chorus packs a punch and Gjon’s voice is phenomenally powerful here. Goosebumps everywhere. The song may not be the most danceable, or emotionally hard-hitting, but it is epic, mysterious, powerful and absolutely superb. I really like it.
Prediction: This is different and daring, and I imagine the juries will respect the creativity and originality of this. Televotes will vote for his amazing voice, and if the stage impresses, this could really do well. I don’t know if it has a wide enough appeal to win, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it did. It’s absolutely qualifying for sure, and I would most likely put it at 6-10, if not higher. This will do well, mark my words.
Photo credit: SRF/ Oscar Alessio
15. Moldova- Sugar
16. Iceland- 10 Years
17. Spain- Voy a Quedarme
18. Israel- Set Me Free
19. Czech Republic- Omaga
20. Belgium- The Wrong Place
21. Croatia- Tick-Tock
22. Norway- Fallen Angel
23. Denmark- Øve Os På Hinanden
24. Latvia- The Moon is Rising
25. Sweden- Voices
26. United Kingdom- Embers
27. Romania- Amnesia
28. Ireland- Maps
29. Serbia- Loco Loco
30. Poland- The Ride
31. Greece- Last Dance
32. Australia- Technicolour
33. Germany- I Don’t Feel Hate
34. Albania- Karma
35. Austria- Amen
36. Slovenia- Amen
37. Georgia- You
38. Estonia- The Lucky One
39. Portugal- Love is on my Side
The Euro-Vine 