After much discussion, and against the will of some important people at ERR, Estonia will take part in the 2009 Eurovision Song Contest. A good decision.
A multitude of half-hearted reasons to drop out have been cited, one less serious-sounding than the other. Estonia should show sympathy with Georgia, was one. Estonia fears that Russia will turn Eurovision into a propaganda machine was another.
Of course taking part is the only way to go. Estonia is too small a country to be able to afford missing out international exposure like the ESC. The best statement one can make is to be present.
Now is the question, who wants to pick up the task of representing the Estonian tricolor in Moscow after the ERR tainted the whole thing with so much politics?
My answer now, as always, is: Anne Veski. She is a grand old lady of Estonian pop, a real icon with real talent, and also very popular and appreciated in Russia. If anyone can be a gracious ambassadress in Moscow, it is her.
Tobias has promised a review of the Estonian finalists tonight but I can't keep my fingers away either. Just thought I'd point out that we are writing from different countries so if our reviews look the same then just blame our exquisite taste.
Just like hubby-dear explained before Eurolaul is very close to my heart too. I've been over to Tallinn for the show several times and through this wonderful world of Eurovision I have become great friends with a bunch of crazy Esti people. That's why it bugs me that they probably will choose their absolute worse entry yet next Saturday. Maybe it's time to go back to an international jury again?
(Click on the title to see the performance on ETV's website)
1. Kreisiraadio - Leto svet Oh. My. God. Estonian people have no taste so this will win and I will hate it forever. Embarrassing and shockingly bad!! 2. SKA Faktor - Real Big Money Fun with ska but the vocalist has to improve his English for me to be satisfied. And while you're at it, improve the song a tad too, please. 3. Rolf Junior - One On One Mika-wannabee with a GREAT song but a too over-the-top performance (love the big backing singer though!). A weak voice in places (nerves?) but normally Rolf is a good singer. Listen! 4. Taavi Peterson - Question Man Influences from David Bowie but what good is that when Taavi can't sing a single note in tune. And by God, learn how to pronounce your own damn title. It's QuesTion man. You fool! 5. Kristjan Kasearu & Paradise Crew - Üksinduses Much better on a second run through of the songs. Didn't rate it at all first but it grows. And 10 points to the duet partner. A new Ines? 6. Birgit Õigemeel - 365 Days Classy performance! The girl can sing. A good ballad but could be more bombastic. Still one of my favourites of the lot. 7. Luisa Värk ja Traffic - It’s Never Too Late Too nice and bland. Forgettable. Better suited at the local karaoke night. Oh, and shoot the lyricist will ya?! 8. Supernova - Stefani This is the kind of song and band you'd expect to see on the shabby Tallink ferry between Tallinn-Helsinki. Say no more. 9. Iiris Vesik - Ice-cold Story Cute and cool at the same time. The girl looks about 13 but has a strong special voice. I like the energy in the air. Amy Diamond meets Björk in a Bond party. Makes sense does it? 10. Luisa Värk ja Margus Vaher - God Inside Your Soul Again too bland and too much "God inside your soul gives back control" for my liking.
Personal favourites: Rolf, Birgit & Iiris. I would send Rolf Junior off to Belgrade. The stupid lovable Eesti people will vote: Kreisiraadio
