#montenegro was robbed

[bringerofjollity44]

In today's episode of random-ass national final song stuck in my head

Thinking of her

[yandere-toons]

Someone: *says something rude about the reader*

Yandere: You talk a lot of shit for someone who's house is so flamable.

Characters that have this vibe:

Patrick Hockstetter

Kai (Ninjago)

Tom Lucitor

Bridgit Pike | Firefly

Iblis (Blue Exorcist)

Smaug

Matthew Patel

Deadpool | Wade Wilson

Godzilla

Hades (Hercules 1997)

Snotlout Jorgenson + His Monstrous Nightmare Hookfang

Ruffnut & Tuffnut Thorston

Zuko

Jesse Gemstone

Lili Zanotto

Red Son (Monkie Kid)

Eric Cartman

Mr Piranha

Vaas Montenegro

Coriolanus Snow

Lord Garmadon

Roger the Alien

Stewie Griffin

Negaduck | Jim Starling

Bender Bending Rodríguez

Rocket Raccoon

Cherri Bomb (Hazbin Hotel)

Blitzo

Rin Okumura

Five Hargreeves

The Joker

Shelby Brothers

Rob (The Amazing World of Gumball)

Lili Zanotto

Judge Claude Frollo

Mushu

Daemon Targaryen

Joffrey "for someone whose head is so cuttable" Baratheon

Sheldon J. Plankton

Bowser

Emperor Zurg

Emperor Nefarious

Handsome Jack

Trevor Philips

Gremlins

Bakugou Katsuki (early on)

Dabi

Duncan (Total Drama)

Heather (Total Drama)

Honourable Mentions:

Gru + Minions, Vector (Despicable Me), Megamind (when he was villainous), Doctor Nefarious, Gyro Gearloose and Technical Boy would consider arson too lowbrow. In their tech-savvy minds, shrink rays, piranha guns, dehydration guns, atomisation, robot and clone armies and breaking every bone in the person's body all send the correct message.

"Why settle for a house?" wonders most iterations of the Doctor (Doctor Who). "Why not drop them on some desolate planet or in some hostile universe where they die over and over again?" Bill Cipher seconds this notion.

Jack Frost (Rise of the Guardians) would freeze the doors and ice the floors and windows, effectively creating a giant icebox as fires cannot stay burning in his presence.

Dark Helmet, Kylo Ren, Armitage Hux and Darth Vader would vaporise the person's house (and planet to boot) from space. If the person was off-world at the time, those who are Force or Schwartz users will proceed to Force-choke or laser the person even after they have lost everything.

Scar (The Lion King) would arrange an accident that is tragically and unavoidably fatal while Shenzi, Banzai and Ed would maul the person in full view of a crowd.

Gaz Membrane is constantly rude to anyone who dares to be her obsession, but if anyone else tries the same rudeness, they will pay. Zim and the two main Tallest also have shades of this.

Albert Wesker (Resident Evil 5 era): Look, another test subject for Uroboros has presented itself.

Urdnot Wrex, Grunt (Mass Effect 2) and Wolverine are not the burn-your-house-down types. It would be too easy for the person to learn nothing from the experience, such as how much they should be afraid of running their mouth to the wrong stranger in the future. These three will knock the person out before they even finish the sentence.

Yzma has exactly the right potion for this human flea, except that she adds an extra four or so steps to the plan.

Lord Hater invades the scoundrel's home planet with the support of Commander Peepers and his army of Watchdogs, or he may blast the world to smithereens with a laser.

Lord Dominator delights in crushing this pest's home world with her drill and making them watch every life on it come to an end.

Marvin the Martian said it best: "Be polite, or I'll vaporise you."

[titoist]

as i am writing, it is 11:40pm. at around 2am, give or take, i will be boarding a bus to Montenegro, where i will be staying until the morning of the 9th. the possibility of this trip sprung up on me largely by circumstance, and it is largely not with acceptance, but simply with a lack of resistance that i've chosen to accompany someone. not that i resent or dislike 'having to go', if anything i am hopeful it will be livening for me, introduce some motion to the stagnant structures my thoughts tend to be composed in. but still: what is driving me is a matter of simple adherence to momentum.

earlier today, i started feeling an intense unease about the whole thing, the idea of going on a trip, being elsewhere, etc. but it's not just about that. it's not something that finds it's expression in the thought "what if i get lost", "what if something goes wrong", "what if etc etc thing", that bases itself in a rational possibility & then follows the thread of that possibility. the unease i am describing is stranger. and i think it's rooted in the very idea of going on a trip itself, even in the best possible trip one might take, with full guarantees of safety & having enough money to get by & so on. by being rooted in the very idea of going on a trip itself, fearful emphasis is placed not on being elsewhere, but on the movement it necessitates. even though the exact composition of objects & spatial proportions that defines "My Room" feels much, much too important, too

going on a trip represents a vacuum of unique memories. most people go on trips basically entirely for the purpose of creating unique memories. i anticipate feeling compelled to note, describe, and extract meanings from every single one of these memories and moments. while sitting next to the window in a bus, i am compelled -- in that moment -- to describe the view & the feeling i get from the view & what i think about the feeling i get from the view & what my feeling might signify. this applies to everything and makes me generally feel like reality constricts me, pushing in both horizontally & vertically. fulfilling this compulsion is satisfying, but i can't deny that it robs me of the freedom & time to experience many, many more things, many of them possibly constructive and lovely, all of the time. but ignoring the compulsion, or being unable to fulfill it, for an extended makes me feel empty. like my mental horizon is shrinking. like living in a house where every day you find random piece of furniture gone, until at some point it becomes totally empty

it is also the first actual trip from home i have gone on since long before the event occurred. it feels like i've metastasized into something that feels defined by it's presence in my room & it's encompassing geography. it feels possible that, elsewhere, i might have trouble existing. like building myself into a complex house of cards in isolation over the span of 3 years & then triumphantly opening my front door & being immediately blown away by a sudden gust of wind

[spandexual]

[high-pitched, babyish voice with thick Slavic accent] hi my name is Octavia Zverotić, I'm 25 years old girl from Montenegro 🥰 my hobbies include shopping, skydiving, mass murder, collecting supercars, managing my club, robbing banks, and taking the perfect pics for snapmatic!😋

[effanineffableposts]

dude drop ur nations of the world by yakko warner verse

[this verse follows the original song, which concludes on "Fiji, Australia, Sudan". Like the original song, it also messes with pronunciation + total accuracy in some places for the sake of rhyme. This was written in 2019.]

São Tomé and Príncipe, then Timor-Leste, Wales, and then Vanuatu, North and South Korea, all of Micronesia, Kiribati and Tuvalu. Grenadines, Grenada, St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Mauritius, Burkina Faso, St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua Barbuda, Seychelles, and then San Marino. Marshall Islands, the United Arab Emirates, C.A.R., Equatorial Guinea, Singapore, the U.K., the Congo, Trinidad, Comoros, Vatican City.

[this next verse is a modified version of the one Rob Paulsen performs in this video "Rob Paulsen The Countries of the World song! UPDATED 2017", mostly adding in even more countries to remove pauses]

Montenegro, and Bosnia Herzegovina, the Soviet Union is gone, South Africa, Georgia, Moldovia, Latvia, Belarus. Azerbaijan. Uzbekistan, South Sudan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Then there’s Tajikistan too, Dominica, Pakistan, Nauru, Turkmenistan, Armenia, Tonga, Palau. Lithuania, Serbia, Kosovo, Maldives, Samoa, the Balkans, Brunei, Macau and Crimea, then Eritrea— Ukraine and Estonia, North Macedonia, New Caledonia, Croatia, Slovenia, Ivory Coast and Cape Verde, Andorra, the Solomon Islands— good-bye, GOOD-BYE!

[eccentrickleptomaniac]

Ermmm drop Yugoslavia headcanons

tbh my headcanons for him were very much influenced by someone i used to know who used to rp as the guy's ghost LOL

in my hc he was a pretty laid back guy? he was not one to start conflicts unless something else was happening elsewhere. however, despite that, there was still an aura of.. i suppose danger? around him. he was a really tall guy and tended to lean down to talk to people. there was a certain type of spark in his eyes that made a direct look at him incredibly chilling, even if there was nothing that he would probably do. granted, when he did have reason to fight he wasn't known for being merciful. i associate him heavily with the story of henry turner that rob taxpayer gave in the release notes of god, forgive these bastards.

he had like.. honestly no enemies in his lifetime aside from the chetniks and ustaše. but its not like that was for too long, both of them died at his hands LOL. and he took in their children too! OH OH OH also i forgot. for a while him and the USSR did not like eachother. it did NOT help that yugo was like.. the pettiest bitch on the planet and often talked positively of the western bloc around him just to piss him off.

yugoslavia had one brother! guess who Nah it was czechoslovakia. the two were close throughout their lifetimes and ESPECIALLY post tito-stalin split. yugo could not help but always be worried for his safety, especially during and after the invasion in 1969. considering that the ussr literally shot czechoslovakia's eye out i think its pretty reasonable!

the other warsaw pact members had pretty positive relations with him. they admired him for being able to so openly call out the ussr for the shit he did. speaking of warsaw pact members.. albania! unlike albania and serbia, the two were mostly fine with eachother. like sure, at one point yugoslavia was going to try to invade her but it didn't happen so it doesnt count. also albania didn't find out until after his death.

he was, compared to most, a good father. maybe not the best he could've been at times but his children liked him. due to his neutral policy he never sheltered his kids from talking to anyone in either bloc of the war and because of that they had friends! unlike eg! his children, and ESPECIALLY serbia think of him positively.

nearing the end of his life (i mean post-tito) he did get a bit paranoid and worn down.. it led to some decisions he regrets making as well as the start of the yugoslav wars. his funeral was incredibly well attended. people liked him for who he was despite everything. i think i once wrote something about poland and germany attending? i didn't finish it tho haha. i also don't know exactly when he dies.. the date slides around in my head from when yugoslavia became merely a political union to all the way back in 1992 when serbia and montenegro formed FR yugoslavia.

hope this suffices. ^_^

[theocseason4]

I feel like the majority still don’t know this but most of the big awards you have to campaign for! Shows/movies get a budget to go butter up the board pretty much. It’s why so many boring movies get the nominations when other good movies get no recognition

Is why fernanda montenegro was robbed of an award

[danielfuckingricciardo]

Because I’m in the Eurovision mood I thought I’d share my favourite song from each country (past and present!)

1. Albania 🇦🇱

2022 - Sekret // Ronela Hajati

2. Andorra 🇦🇩

2006 - Sense Tu // Jennifer

3. Armenia 🇦🇲

2014 - Not Alone // Aram MP3

4. Australia 🇦🇺

2015 - Tonight Again // Guy Sebastian

5. Austria 🇦🇹

2014 - Rise Like a Phoenix // Conchita Wurst

(This song makes me feel emotions every time damn it!)

6. Azerbaijan 🇦🇿

2021 - Mata Hari // Efendi

7. Belarus 🇧🇾

2014 - Cheesecake // Teo

(Underrated tune fr)

8. Belgium 🇧🇪

2015 - Rhythm Inside // Loïc Nottet

9. Bosnia and Herzegovina 🇧🇦

2011 - Love in Rewind // Dino Merlín

10. Bulgaria 🇧🇬

2017 - Beautiful Mess // Kristian Kostov

11. Croatia 🇭🇷

2023 - Mama ŠČ! // Let 3

12. Cyprus 🇨🇾

2018 - Fuego // Eleni Foureira

13. Czechia 🇨🇿

2019 - Friend of a Friend // Lake Malawi

(Was very hard to choose between this one and Lie To Me. It’s a very close second)

14. Denmark 🇩🇰

2021 - Øve Os På Hinanden // Fyr Og Flamme

(Was robbed in the semi-finals imo)

15. Estonia 🇪🇪

2015 - Goodbye to Yesterday // Elina Born + Stig Rästa

16. Finland 🇫🇮

2022 - Jezebel // The Rasmus

(Should have done so much better imo)

17. France 🇫🇷

2016 - J’ai Cherché // Amir

18. Georgia 🇬🇪

2011 - One More Day // Eldrine

19. Germany 🇩🇪

2011 - Taken by a Stranger // Lena

(Better than Satellite for sure, but Satellite slaps too)

20. Greece 🇬🇷

2008 - Secret Combination // Kalomira

21. Hungary 🇭🇺

2018 - Viszlát Nyár // AWS

22. Iceland 🇮🇸

2020 - Think About Things // Daði og Gagnamagnið

(Basic I know but it’s just such a good tune)

23. Ireland 🇮🇪

2011 - Lipstick // Jedward

(Not sorry about this one it slaps and Jedward are my kings)

24. Israel 🇮🇱

2015 - Golden Boy // Nadav Guedj

25. Italy 🇮🇹

(Gonna have to do a top five because I have such a thing for Italy in Eurovision I can’t pick just one oop)

2017 - Occidentali’s Karma // Francesco Gabbani

2015 - Grande Amore // Il Volo

2018 - Non Mi Avette Fatto Niente // Ermal Meta + Fabrizio Moro

2021 - Zitti E Buoni // Måneskin

2019 - Soldi // Mahmood

26. Latvia 🇱🇻

2022 - Eat Your Salad // Citi Zēni

(As a vegetarian and a bisexual I approve this message)

27. Lithuania 🇱🇹

2021 - Discotheque // The Roop

28. Luxembourg 🇱🇺

1988 - Croire // Lara Fabian

29. Malta 🇲🇹

2022 - Je Me Casse // Destiny

30. Moldova 🇲🇩

(My second favourite Eurovision country so here’s a top three)

2022 - Trenulețul // Zdob şi Zdub & Advahov Brothers

2018 - My Lucky Day // DoReDos

2017 - Hey Mamma // Sunstroke Project

31. Monaco 🇲🇨

1964 - Où Sont-elles Passées? // Romuald

(When I say I have an obsession with this song I mean it. PS Monaco plz come back we miss you!!)

32. Montenegro 🇲🇪

2015 - Adio // Knez

- Ranking Morocco doesn’t really feel fair because they only participated once lol -

33. The Netherlands 🇳🇱

2016 - Slow Down // Douwe Bob

(Hehe 33 Max Verstappen number it’s fate fr)

34. North Macedonia 🇲🇰

2012 - Crno I Belo // Kaliopi

35. Norway 🇳🇴

2009 - Fairytale // Alexander Rybak

(Listen I know it’s a basic choice but this song is iconic for a reason y’know? It slaps)

36. Poland 🇵🇱

2022 - River // Ochman

(King of the vocals fr brings me to tears every time)

37. Portugal 🇵🇹

2021 - Love is On My Side // The Black Mamba

38. Romania 🇷🇴

2010 - Playing With Fire // Paula Seling + Ovi

39. Russia 🇷🇺

2016 - You are the Only One // Sergey Lazarev

(Listen I’m a Sergey Lazarev stan first and human second. Between 2016 and 2018 I almost exclusively listened to his back catalogue and nothing else)

40. San Marino 🇸🇲

(Underrated country fr no one gets them like I do so they also get a top three)

2022 - Stripper // Achille Lauro

2021 - Adrenalina // Senhit + Flo-Rida

2019 - Say Na Na Na // Serhat

41. Serbia 🇷🇸

2023 - Samo Mi Se Spava // Luke Black

- Also not counting Serbia and Montenegro because they don’t have an emoji flag and they only participated twice -

42. Slovakia 🇸🇰

2010 - Horehronie // Kristina Pelakova

43. Slovenia 🇸🇮

2023 - Carpe Diem // Joker Out

44. Spain 🇪🇸

2019 - La Venda // Miki

(When I say this song was robbed I mean it. One of the biggest injustices faced in Eurovision was Miki coming 22nd)

45. Sweden 🇸🇪

(Sweden get a top three because they’re Sweden… they always slay)

2015 - Heroes // Måns Zelmerlöw

2012 - Euphoria // Loreen

2017 - I Can’t Go On // Robin Bengtsson

46. Switzerland 🇨🇭

2021 - Tout l'Univers // Gjon’s Tears

47. Türkiye 🇹🇷

2010 - We Could Be The Same // maNga

(Türkiye come back we miss you!!)

48. Ukraine 🇺🇦

(Another slay country so here’s a top three)

2018 - Under the Ladder // MELOVIN

2007 - Dancing Lasha Tumbai // Verka Serduchka

2021 - Shum // Go_A

49. United Kingdom 🇬🇧

(In the name of patriotism, of which I have very little, let’s do a top five + an honourable mention)

2012 - Love Will Set You Free // Engelbert Humperdinck

2022 - SPACE MAN // Sam Ryder

1981 - Making Your Mind Up // Buck’s Fizz

1968 - Congratulations // Cliff Richard

1976 - Save Your Kisses for Me // Brotherhood of Man

+ my honourable mention, Freaks // Jordan Clarke which should have been our song for 2019 but the British general public have no taste. I firmly believe this is why they no longer trust us to hold a national selection anymore lol

50. Yugoslavia *insert flag here*

1989 - Rock Me // Riva

(Basic choice I know, to pick their only winning song, but it slaps)

And that’s everyone!! Feel free to judge me hard for my tastes lol 😂

[deep-hearts-core]

2012 - semifinal one

originally posted june 8th, 2020

Thoughts before watching I'm back! (Not that anyone reads these...) 2012 in my opinion wasn't a very strong year, and I have a whole lot to say about the hosting, postcards, and especially that abysmal stage design.

Montenegro The performer said it himself - he's not aiming to place well. That much is clear. This song is absolutely a political statement and doesn't even try to disguise itself. It's bad rapping - honestly, it's not even rapping, I'd qualify it as somewhere closer to slam poetry. This song does not try to be good, and it is not good. Iceland There is no such thing as a good staging decision in the 2012 contest, but Iceland didn't make entirely poor decisions either. Never Forget is a well-written song, and the staging did its best to keep up with the drama of the music. Greta and her violin were definitely used really well.

Greece The dance routine was a good choice because it kept me engaged and not focused on how bad the stage is. Good job, Greece. This song is definitely a callback to Secret Combination and the rest of its cohort but Eleftheria does a fair job of making it her own. It's not a standout song but it's nonetheless fun. Also, I'm impressed by how well Eleftheria can dance in those heels. Latvia I can't tell if this entry takes itself seriously or not. It does actually have a nice tune to it. The lyrics, though, do make this seem like something out of a musical about Eurovision rather than something actually from Eurovision itself. Anmary isn't a bad singer or perfomer, this was just cursed by the 2012 stage the same every other entry was. I can't find it in my heart to hate it. Albania It's a darn shame that some of the best stage work in 2012 had to be for this entry. Rona has a strong voice and she's good on the choruses but her vocal style in the rest of the song is just so off-putting to me that it entirely cancels out her belting and the staging. I guess I can see how it got to 5th but that doesn't mean I have to like it. Romania This song has a nice hook but the stage performance is remarkably low-energy. Like, it's not bad, it's just not very strong.  Switzerland I feel like I used to hate this - I don't actually remember for certain, but this actually isn't bad. I strongly dislike the singer's voice but other than that it's a solidly medium song with solidly better-than-awful staging.

Belgium Staging is actually pretty good here (relatively). The staging, background, and costumes are all pleasing to look at which is more than I can say for some entries. The song is nothing special and Iris does take a good third of the song to really settle into it both vocally and in terms of her stage presence, but once she's done that she does pretty well. Finland I had forgotten how competent the staging actually was here. Better than anyone else's except Albania so far. That said, I really hate the verses, and this song is so repetitive. This is another of those songs the fandom always brings up as being robbed in the semis, but I solidly and firmly believe that it deserved to stay there. Israel Hey wait, this was good actually. It's weird, certainly, but it's fun and I really enjoy the song, especially after the Belgian and Finnish entries that were much less good song-wise. San Marino I think this might be the best Valentina entry relative to the other songs in its year. It's fun, Valentina is performing well, the song actually doesn't suck, and it had okay staging. It's weird seeing Valentina so young though - like not young necessarily just to see her before she'd made Eurovision San Marino her career.

Cyprus This is fun and energetic, and I think it was probably really modern for its time. Cyprus and Greece sent really similar entries this year and to me, Cyprus really came out on top. I like the aesthetic of the staging and the dance routine, and Ivi's vocals were maybe not great but they were at least good, considering that she was 1) a teenager and 2) doing this energetic dance routine at the same time. Denmark This is unironically one of my favorite songs from 2012. I don't know what it is about it. Shoulda Known Better is a really lovely song, and Soluna and everyone on stage with her was really jamming out, lending a very chill feel to it that really endears it to me. Russia I don't know how to feel about this one. It's weird. It's fun to listen to and the grannies are definitely cute to watch onstage, but also I really do prefer entries that are entirely serious both in performance and in production and I really do not believe that the Russian broadcaster was serious about this one. Hungary Hungary actually did pretty OK with the staging here, and I really like the song. Those two things put together mean that I enjoy this song a lot more than most people do - I just vibe with it.

Austria This is probably one of my favorite joke entries because it doesn't pretend to be serious and also because musically it just goes hard. Woki Mit Deim Popo is by no means good, but it's lighthearted fun sung in heavy Austrian dialect by two dudes just bouncing around on stage. Moldova Moldova is never afraid to be quirky at Eurovision, and that's why I enjoy so many of their entries. Lautar is no exception. Yes, the staging makes the girls look like they're bugs scuttling around, but like, whatever, classic Moldova. Pasha is also very showy and enjoyable to watch. Ireland I am not really a fan of Jedward or this song, but I really love the fountain here. The energy of the twins is really off-putting as is that outfit, and the song doesn't outright suck but it's really not good, especially compared to Lipstick.

My personal qualifiers Cyprus Denmark Israel Moldova Iceland Latvia Greece Hungary San Marino Ireland

Miscellaneous thoughts I actually don't hate these hosts so much. Leyla is kind of annoying, but all in all this is a pretty decent effort. People make it out to be worse than it is because 2012 was sandwiched between the fantastic German hosts and fan favorite Petra.

[lungfishpoem]

I HATE the oscars these cunts robbed Fernanda Montenegro and Central do Brasil. (<- just finished watching it for the first time)

[automundoarg]

Ignacio Montenegro avanzó en el TCR World Ranking

Gracias a su excelente desempeño en la Winter Series del TCR Spain se ubica en la 26ª posición de la tabla que lidera Yann Ehrlacher.

El comienzo de la actividad del TCR Spain, con la Winter Series que ganó Ignacio Montenegro; y del TCR Australia marcó la apertura de la temporada 2024 del TCR en el mundo y, a su vez, los primeros movimientos del TCR World Ranking. Tras estos primeros puntos repartidos, el francés Yann Ehrlacher sigue al frente de la tabla seguido por el húngaro Norbert Michelisz y el británico Rob Huff. Dentro…

[whenitsdarkweilluminate]

Rotterdam 2020 – Semi-Final 1

Host: Netherlands Slogan: “Open Up” Participants: 41 Voting method: 12-point system (50/50 system - separated) Format: 2 Semi-Finals / Grand Final = the top 10 of semi 1 & 2 + the Big 5 + host

General Overview:

As we all know, the 2020 contest was canceled because of the pandemic. The timing was very unfortunate - the world turned upside down in mid-March, which is right when the national final season wraps up. The WHO declared the pandemic on March 11, the last song (Russia) was released on March 12, and the cancellation was announced on March 18. It wasn't the news I wanted to hear – I get so excited for Eurovision every year – but obviously everyone's health and safety is more important. I was hoping for a postponement, but it would've been a logistical nightmare, and no one knew how long the restrictions would last. Or even a virtual event, but it would've been unfair to compare performances on different stages with different production values. I doubt the EBU wanted to disappoint the artists, fans, delegations, and everyone else involved; or lose money over this. So canceling was a last resort. Thankfully, they did everything they could to bring the contest back in 2021!

However, this means I have to review the 2020 entries differently. There is no staging to factor in, although the national final performances will inevitably sway me (and I will comment on those). I know it's unfair to compare them because the production values and stages vary by country, and then the internal selections are a mystery (especially if the artist didn't return for 2021). But I'll try to prioritize the studio versions (post-revamp). My 2020 ranking will essentially be a pre-contest ranking; except there's no live shows to shift everything around later on. I will also give my qualification predictions.

Semi-Final 1 is pretty easy to predict though – I'd say there's 8 locked qualifiers, and Romania is also pretty likely. And the last spot either goes to Belgium or Australia. Semi-Final 2 will be much more open.

The number of participants stays at 41, with Bulgaria and Ukraine returning after their one-year absences, while Hungary and Montenegro are out.

Sweden: The Mamas - Move John Lundvik's backing singers are now the headliners! But, just like with “Too Late for Love”, all the personality and emotion comes from the performers, and not the robotic, sterile Swedish composition. The Mamas' harmonies are stellar (“oh-OH-oh-OH LIFE”; “DAMN RIGHT!”; “WE'RE MOVING MOUNTAINS!”) And their uplifting, supportive voices express unconditional love. They turn “Move” into a giant group hug. There's 0 negativity here. The song opens with distorted “uh-ah-ooh”s, a calm piano, and a slam. The piano continues with some squeals; then the bass and snaps come in. The pre-chorus skips around (“evEN whEN the RAIN is FALLing”). Then the chorus slam-stops, pulling back into a hum for a moment, before escalating with claps/pounds. There's another pause, then the bangs run wild, with a bunch of “uh ah ooh”s on repeat. The 2nd chorus claps start earlier. The bridge is almost a cappella – with just claps until the organ appears, leading to a “whoa-oh-ah-oh” vocal climax. And the song ends on a closing slam. The hooks and the shout-out loud chorus are effective. The lyrics promise support and assurance when things turn bad. Why? Because their partner does the same. It's alright if we try and fail; we wipe the tears and become stronger. The chorus uses hyperbolic cliches to show devotion (like moving mountains!) The Melfest staging was simple. It mostly used spotlights. I liked when they leaned during “Damn right!” though. And they brought positive energy and great chemistry.

My fave Melfest 2020 entry was, of course, Dotter's “Bulletproof”, which lost by 1 point! I also loved “Kingdom Come”, “Brave”, and “Ballerina” (robbed). “Boys with Emotions” had a nice message too. The rest of the final was kinda underwhelming though. I also completely forgot about “Carpool Karaoke”. 💀

My prediction: 99% (#12 odds/ #12 scoreboard app). Possibly the SF1 jury winner as well. And considering Sweden's track record from 2011+, this is LOCKED.

Belarus: VAL - Da vidna #StandWithUkraine

Belarus's last non-rejected entry sounded weak at first – the production is too toned-down, especially the “drop”. But it creates a peaceful mood that's kinda mournful and kinda hopeful. The production is very late-2010s electronic. The distorted squeals in the intro are like painful harsh cries. The song also starts with a peaceful piano. The first verse adds soft taps and more distortions, then the snaps and bubbly synths come in. The latter are more apparent at the end of the verse. I also like the rising 'daaaa d-DA-DA' verse melody. The chorus submerges at first with stiff blunt synths and rattling ticks, then the vocals amplify midway, as the beat accelerates into the “drop”, which is this squealing siren. The build-up works for me. Verse 2 keeps the rattling ticks, and the vocals become more intense. And the bridge submerges similarly. In the lyrics, Valeria questions why her mother forced her into a relationship she didn't choose. There's season metaphors – braiding and un-braiding autumn; paths obscured by winter snow. The night is full of secrets and passion. But the song focuses on the dawn, when she'll be free. Hence the peaceful vibe. She also reflects on growing up too fast (a white rose blooming early). The NF performance is fine, but could be more polished. There's twirling hands, hip thrusts, 'okay' hand signs on the eyes, a chain armour thing on Valeria's head, and she gets physically close to the other two members.

My prediction: 25% (#40 odds/ #31 scoreboard app). In such a strong semi-final, this would've been forgotten about. Especially being 2nd in the running order. UNLIKELY.

Australia: Montaigne - Don't Break Me Not even a NF can stop DNA Songs! “Don't Break Me” is an annoying and overproduced song, but at least the lyrics describe a toxic relationship accurately and insightfully. Montaigne's fading romantic feelings are replaced with fear. They feel taken for granted. They've given so much and stretched themselves thin. But, upon the beat switch, they can't take it anymore! They plead “don't break me down”!; because they're made of glass, not elastic! (kind of a silly metaphor). But it seems to fall on deaf ears. Montaigne's partner brings up their own trauma instead hearing them out. Montaigne also says love should be a compromise and equal effort. Only one of them is employed. But Montaigne loves them too much to give up. This song is venting out despair. The first verse moves in anxious cloudy patters and constant guitar pokes, with a few tunnel voices. Then the pre-chorus slams down in this angry, growling, grumbling way that catches me off-guard. But the chorus itself is a let down – it's a boring modern trap-y heavy drum beat, which pauses and sinks back down a couple times. The chorus vocal/melody is really annoying too, and they sing the verses weirdly. Verse #2 starts with a synth warning, before turning trap-y as well. While the bridge is an extended pre-chorus. I don't care for the NF performance either. The camera work and the choreo make me dizzy and Montaigne is dressed like a clown, with a ruffled collar, blue wig, and blush. I guess they're the clown in the relationship. They walk like a marionette at one point. And swing their limbs while being lifted up.

My prediction: 45% (#16 odds/ #14 scoreboard app). They would need to improve the staging and the vocals. It's between Australia and Belgium for the last qualifier spot, and my gut says it's Belgium. BORDERLINE OUT.

North Macedonia: Vasil - You NM's delegation must've been like: “Yay we finally made top 10! Now we don't gotta try anymore!” Because this is the most obvious NQ. “You” is a bland song that doesn't have much going for it. The melody and the instrumental don't grab me enough. There's a long tunnel voice intro (like a distant indecipherable echo), then the bubbling synth boops take over, with a tingly instrument at one point. The pre-chorus brings in the accordion, claps, and a guitar flick sequence. Then the song stops, and the forgettable “drop” hits – which is this grinding motorized bass, with a glossy beat. It also pauses and heightens midway. The “DANCE... WITH YOU” hesitations are a meh hook though. Verse #2 adds a beat to the boops. Chorus #2 starts with a double clap. The bridge returns to the tunnel voice, mixed with helicopter flutters, leading to a long “TOOOOOOOOOOONIGHT” and thundery drums. But the sped-up outro is the only part that gets interesting. The song is too innocuous overall. Its energy is very mild. The lyrics don't have anything interesting to say either. Vasil holds trembling hands with this person. Their eyes are magnetic. He invites them to dance in the moment, because they may never see each other again. They kiss. He wants more. Maybe the staging would involve Vasil dancing with someone. I doubt it would be enough to save it though.

My prediction: 10% (#29 odds/ #37 scoreboard app). Too bland and forgettable. It's also my prediction for last place. NO CHANCE.

Slovenia: Ana Soklič - Voda “Voda” has an epic Balkan Ballad chorus, but I'm left wanting more from the song. The water drip sounds are tacky too, and they detract from the wintry atmosphere. The intro is cinematic, with an icy sharp piano and tense strings that swell up. The verse starts bare, with a slow piano and low frosty pings. Then the strings reemerge and grow. The chorus, by contrast, is explosive and extensive: Ana screams “VOOOOOOOOODAAAAAAAAAAAAAA” alongside trap-y broken metal ticks, more strings, and a drum bang bit. Verse #2 adds subtle taps and wooden echoes. And I love when she loses restrain in the bridge. The chorus melody works for me; the big vocals and strings elevate it. But this is a slow-moving song and the climax (the bridge) happens too late. The lyrics, meanwhile, revolve around a water metaphor. Ana pushes the subject to move on to new times and places; to not stop on the long journey; to go beyond light and belief. She remarks that the longest path is turning words into action. And that there's a broken chair waiting for a child (huh?) In the chorus, she affirms that the gushing water won't affect them – she'll stick with them through the storm. The water is the root of her endless unease. I don't really understand the verses though. There isn't much to say about the EMA performance, but there must've been a revamp. The first verse is longer, the production is slightly different, and the song just... ends before the bridge. I like the studio version better.

My prediction: 15% (#41 odds/ #39 scoreboard app). Very poor fan reception. Maybe the juries praise her vocals, but I doubt the televote would compensate enough. NO CHANCE.

Lithuania: The Roop - On Fire I don't think this would've won, but it could've been Lithuania's first top 5. It's a very catchy song and the production has a cool vibe. The music starts with spread-out piano slams, followed by finger snaps, leading to a shimmer-stop on “ooh-ooh-ooh”. Then the Milky Chance “Stolen Dance”-like beat takes over – with wobbly bass burps, guitar pokes, and scissor slices. The song's rhythm chugs and bobs up-and-down from here-on-out. The music reduces to just bass burps before the “drop”, then the “drop” adds this addictive squealing siren to the mix (like a firetruck?) Verse #2 pulls back to just guitar and ticks; before the beat returns for the “la la la la”s, heightening midway. And the bridge cuts back to the bass again. It's a very murky atmosphere; like a room filled with smoke, but not in a dangerous way. I love the song's smooth vibe and propulsive rhythm. The “la la la la”s and “THE HEAT IS GETTING HIGHER” hooks are great too. That chorus sounds like rising heat. In the lyrics, Vaidotas defies being told he's too old for personal growth. He's not a stone, he's free to change and move. He knows he's strong enough to achieve this. It took him a while to take action but no one can stop him now. The fire represents his desire and passion. The PiN staging is definitely memorable, with the magnifying glasses, mirrored split-screens, wild arm swings, and fingers behind his head. The choreo is very wacky and he has quirky stage presence. But it isn't cringe. He's just having fun with it.

My prediction: 99% (#2 odds/ #1 scoreboard app). Possibly the SF1 televote winner too. Also one of the 6 winner contenders of 2020, so it's LOCKED.

Ireland: Lesley Roy - Story of My Life This song kinda sounds like Kelly Clarkson's “Stronger”. The dance-pop production takes me back to 2011. Does that make it dated or nostalgic? Either way, the highly energetic, shout-out-loud chorus is a bop. I dislike the “NA NA NA NA NA HEY HEY HEY” schoolyard taunt though. Lesley is taunting the people who thought she wouldn't make it. No one believed in her, but she pulled it off by herself. The “I'm not a puppet on a string” line refutes the 1967 winner. She was known for breaking rules. She was expected to live a normal life. She took their advice to be blunt, then was criticized for it. But she doesn't care what they say because they don't matter. The chorus asserts that it's her life. And the song ends with “I don't care what you say”. The message is about being yourself to reach your dreams. The music starts with incessant, rapid, impatient nudges that keep powering down. The persistent kicks are added in next. Then the buzzy synths and the clappy beat heighten the pre-chorus. While the chorus bulldozes through as the bass-line roars and radiates. That chorus flows like a dam bursting open. It's a giant release of energy. I love when that bass-line hits too. Verse #2 is also buzzy. The second chorus is doubled, and the energy continues through the bridge, letting things run freely. Then the bridge submerges, leading to a clapping breakdown with background voices, before resuming the energy. The song's vibe is like celebrating her life.

My prediction: 35% (#21 odds/ #28 scoreboard app). Ireland's 2014+ track record isn't great, and I just don't see the public prioritizing their votes for this. The staging would need to match the song's energy, and not be as complicated as the “Maps” staging. UNLIKELY.

Russia: Little Big - Uno #StandWithUkraine

I first knew about Little Big when my friend showed me the “Skibidi” video. “Uno” isn't as weird as that, but their style of humour fits Eurovision perfectly for a joke entry. There's some nonsense lyrics, like the “dummy dummy” / “yummy yummy” rhymes and the Spanish counting that skips 3 for some reason. And Ilya seduces Sonya in this creepy voice. He's waiting for her to be ready for “some action” (sex). She needs another drink first (“margarita” and “señorita” adds even more Spanish!) But she's down for it after midnight, calling him charming and funny. He also says “come to daddy”... So, the intro is a watery soap opera organ. Then the piano start/stops in a 'DUN... da-DA da-DA-da... DUN' pattern (with bass added to the middle part), alongside raindrop hand drums and twisting sounds. The pauses steer the verses, then the pre-chorus beat gets things moving. There's a desk bell, and the chorus squeaks along, with a squealing rave synth break afterwards. And a tongue pop in the middle. Verse #2 throws in some “Hah!” pauses. And the bridge vocal sounds like a radio speaker. This is a catchy song – with the “uno-uno-uno” repetitions, and the way Sonya comes in for the pre-chorus and last chorus line. But the production is kinda ugly, the chorus is basic, and the vocals aren't meant to be pleasant. The music video is exactly what I imagined the staging to look like: a memorable dance sequence (the leg crossings), weirdly intimidating facial expressions, and a random dude dancing in workout gear.

My prediction: 99% (#5 odds/ #6 scoreboard app). Possibly the SF1 televote winner too. It's the most viewed video on the Eurovision YouTube channel. It's one of the 6 winner contenders of 2020. And Russia is always a televote magnet. LOCKED.

Belgium: Hooverphonic - Release Me Belgium selects a band that's been charting there for 20+ years. And that experience shows in the professionally crafted instrumental. It starts with a repeating, pounding, agonized piano note, like a migraine. Then the drums and psychedelic guitar splashes get things moving, with some metal clicks. Then the orchestral strings raise the chorus in a expansive, cinematic way. The strings later continue through the bridge. And the song ends once the string tension snaps off. It's a nice song, but a slow-moving one, and Luka's vocal is too sleep-inducing. She lacks enough emotional punch for me. She almost sounds bored? And it becomes a dreary ballad. In the lyrics, Luka keeps asking her lover over and over again to release her, because they won't do it. The song even opens with the words “Release Me”. She doesn't want to talk it out. She already knows what they'll say (probably that they still love her), and it won't fix things. The lying, the pain. The relationship is already over in her mind. It's not right to make her stay. But they hold the power to end it, because she's stuck in this dangerous need of them. She also calls it a “losing game” (an “Arcade” reference?) And the chorus concludes with the old saying “If you love me, let me go”. The second verse and the bridge just repeat the first verse. Her voice makes the situation sound bleak. I mostly just like the strings in this one.

My prediction: 50% (#17 odds/ #22 scoreboard app). I think the juries would've pushed this through, but it could've been another Sennek situation. Especially if the staging is empty. “The Wrong Place” was also borderline, although with a different vocalist. BORDERLINE IN.

Malta: Destiny - All of My Love “Like a river... runnin'... WILD!” The 2015 JESC winner graduates to adult Eurovision! Destiny's vocals are impressive here, especially during the bridge, which is a spiritual awakening. The lyrics could be interpreted as religious, but they don't have to be. She thought praying was useless because she'd never find her path. She felt “no good” and misunderstood. But now everything's changed. This person's love has healed and freed Destiny, so she gives her love back in return. The song is basically a big 'thank you'. She keeps hoping they won't let her down though, showing doubt still exists. But she now realizes their positive validation was right. The song's intro is divine, with a church organ and low-pitched “ah-uh-oh”s. Then the first verse is bare with spread-out piano slams, while Destiny's voice overpowers the isolated, big open space. The finger snaps come next. Then the chorus unleashes an effective clapping rhythm that reminds of me Lumidee / Wayne Wonder / “Pon de Replay”. It's like a bird flapping its wings. The chorus bass-line has a very consuming atmosphere too; it's like the power of universe embracing you. It heightens in the post-chorus. The second verse production gets excited. The song reduces back to piano/snaps before the second chorus. And the bridge is nearly a cappella, save for the claps, with the backing choir leading to Destiny's big note climax. The atmosphere is powerful here. I really love the music video too.

My prediction: 99% (#8 odds/ #8 scoreboard app). Possibly the SF1 jury winner as well. I can't see it being a televote NQ either. LOCKED.

Croatia: Damir Kedžo - Divlji vjetre Well, this is a generic Balkan Ballad. I really dislike the key change as well (those backing vocals…) And I don't like how the instrumental keeps cutting off and switching up. It doesn't flow right. The song opens with a piano buzzer and a slice. Then the frosty piano stays low, with a windy sound and an orchestral jerk in the middle. The smooth strings arrive next. Then it's the dramatic thunder drums, as the pre-chorus escalates. There's a pause, a piano hold, and another pause. Then the smooth strings create a beautiful chorus, with more thunder drums poking through. There's a few isolated kicks halfway, then the percussion pridefully marches ahead. The backing choir sings a line after the chorus. Verse #2 continues the prideful steps and thunder drums. Chorus #2 skips all the build-up. And the song ends on a dramatic slam. The tugging, valiant motion is alright, but nothing special. In the lyrics, Damir still loves his ex, even after they've completely moved on. He wants to move on too, but he can't. It seemed like they were bound forever. So he asks the “Wild Wind” to leave him alone, before he's not himself anymore. He also asks it to bring “withered leaves” and to rain tears on the autumn colours. The lyrics use lots of nature metaphors. “Rip the branches uncontrollably” suggests a messy break-up. There's not much say about the Dora performance. He sings well and the LED lights flash during the thunder drums.

My prediction: 30% (#39 odds/ #36 scoreboard app). I don't think it stands out enough to qualify. UNLIKELY.

Azerbaijan: Efendi - Cleopatra This song is a wild ride. First, Efendi screams “AHHHHHH” across the land. Then the hazy eastern guitar gives a cultural feel. The forceful kicks come next. Then the distressed pre-chorus moves smoother, as the backing cushions it. But the next sequence is SO random: the song stops upon “sounds... like... this”, there's a humming Buddhist mantra on loop, another “AHHHH”, a “LIKE CLEOPATRA!” army command, and a bunch of “LA LA LA”s with room-shaking kicks. She also rolls her R's on “like CleopatRRRa”. Next, verse #2 adds continuous “hey!” slices. An electric guitar starts the next pre-chorus. The bridge goes into machine beeps, more kicks, and stutters; before reducing to a clappy breakdown, a “shhh!”, and then the outro goes into hyper speed. The lyrics are funny too, even with the empowerment message. Efendi boldly compares herself to Cleopatra. They're both queens betrayed by lovers. Both “part goddess, part temptress”. And both “straight or gay or in between” apparently. Efendi's ex left is like Mark Antony, and she clarifies which Marc Anthony lol. You know, “Cleo's gigolo”! No one intervened and she wasn't herself anymore. But now she's back with a vengeance after rediscovering her inner voice – which is that mantra. Cleopatra is her idol I guess. This song is ridiculous, but somehow it works. It's insanely catchy and addictive. Efendi has fun with it while still being a fierce, confident bad-ass. She's in total control of the song; and her life now! And the production goes hard during the “LA LA LA” parts. I love the outro too.

My prediction: 85% (#9 odds/ #9 scoreboard app). Probably a big televote fave but lower with the juries. I'm curious on how they would've staged this. LOCKED.

Cyprus: Sandro - Running Yeah, this is a Meduza copycat, but “Running” is a solid EDM track on its own. The dark, droopy, bass-heavy production traps Sandro in. His vocals aren't the best, but he sounds tormented and tortured; like he's suffering. The song starts with some bass nudges putting pressure on him, alongside a subtle, tense, stationary whistle. Meanwhile, there's deep “BAWP” interruptions throughout the song. The finger snaps come next. Then the song starts moving, and the verse shakes and stops at the end. That quiet part represents how he can't see anymore. The synth drips steadily emerge afterwards, and the shakes and cymbal crashes escalate into the “drop”, which is a bunch of “mmhmm aha”s and dark EDM bass. The drop also starts with a triple clap. Chorus #2 adds snaps to the mix. But the bridge is my fave part, where Sandro's voice jumps out as a desperate cry for help. The beat then stops for a moody string moment, symbolizing when he falls down. The song picks itself back up and ends with strings again. He says “I don't wanna fall again” many times (like collapsing from running), but the final line changes to “I'm NOT gonna fall again”, showing a will to change. Basically, Sandro is tired of running from his mental health, but it's a habit he can't break. He chooses to be alone instead of talking to someone. And he ignores phone calls and door knocks. I like the “BAWP”s and the atmosphere, even if it's a bit monotone. The faster parts represent his running.

My prediction: 40% (#32 odds/ #29 scoreboard app). With the right staging, I could see this being a shock qualifier, but it also depends on his live vocals. BORDERLINE OUT.

Norway: Ulrikke - Attention This is an incredible power ballad. The intro is majestic, with the tense and rising strings (+ piano). After the string tension breaks, there's a series of vibrations, snaps, and drum pats, which move at a patient and careful pace. I also like how she says “attennnTION”. Her voice rises on “I-uh-I-uh-I”, as the piano returns. Then the chorus halts everything, as she screams “SO WHY...” alongside gradual piano and drum booms. There's a rising “DO-oo-OO” hook too. The first chorus is just a tease though. Verse #2 is less minimal and adds background voices. There's some impatient steps, then chorus #2 is MASSIVE and EXPLOSIVE. Ulrikke's huge vocals and the low backing chants really power it. That chorus demands attention. The bridge is a fragile moment. Then more impatient steps + an “OHHHH” build into the finale. So, Ulrikke is desperate for this person's attention, but I get the sense she doesn't like this side of herself. The lyrics show self-awareness. She does crazy, foolish things to make them notice her. She wouldn't normally exhibit these behaviours. She doesn't have time for her friend anymore. But this person is oblivious to her signals. The explosive chorus is when Ulrikke lets her frustration out; she also questions why she changes herself to please someone else. Then, in the bridge, she tries to call it quits, feeling humiliated on the dance floor. On the MGP stage, she wears a sparkly dress next to a violinist and a cellist, and there's a fire rain climax. That final chorus transition is so good.

My prediction: 99% (#11 odds/ #5 scoreboard app). It's the type of ballad that appeals to both juries and televoters. Probably top 10 in the Grand Final too. LOCKED.

Israel: Eden Alene - Feker Libi This >>> “Toy” and “Home”. “Feker Libi” is a celebration of loving someone from another culture without shame. The music showcases this multicultural union by constantly switching the language and instrumental to different parts of the world! In a cohesive way too. Interestingly, 2019 interval act Idan Raichel helped write this. It starts in tropical Ethiopia, with a lamellophone, a couple reedy sounds, and Amharic lyrics expressing Eden's love. Then the song suddenly erupts into “YALLA-LA” shouts, xylophone boops, and commanding drum bangs, as the synth powers up. There's a water drip, then the verses follow horse-galloping ticks and drum wobbles. The pre-chorus adds emphatic claps, leading to a slapping motion on the made-up language part (“maka lakuma”), which I like. Then the European house beat relieves the tension. There's a series of knocks, then the instrumental turns Middle Eastern (I love how this part approaches you), as she says love terms in Amharic, Arabic and Hebrew. The percussion also turns chaotic towards the end, although the song finishes on a quieter note. The lyrics don't say a lot - Eden asks Incan goddess Pachamama to show the way. She says close your eyes and feel the “melodía” (so there's Spanish as well). And that tonight is a “colour party”! But I love the positive energy here. The NF stage includes a lamellophone player, dancers dressed in yellow, foreign scripts on the LED, and camera jerks on the drum bangs. The smiles and Eden's charisma are great.

My prediction: 90% (#18 odds/ #16 scoreboard app). Probably somewhere between 9th-13th in the Grand Final. LOCKED.

Romania: Roxen - Alcohol You I can understand the hype - Roxen's distinct vocal contains raw emotion. They sound like a trembling, broken, sobbing mess. They scream in agony during the last chorus. And they can't finish the “from the bottom of my…” line. But the “Alcohol You”/“I'll call you” pun and the “fake news” lyric are cringe. And the song is kinda pretentious? I like the “I need you but it hurts/To feel like I deserve/Your weapons” line though. I also like the pre-chorus build-up, and the verses sound like a big, dark, empty space. But the chorus pause annoys me. The song is about drunk calling an ex, and how that's probably a bad idea. The colourful morning sunrise makes Roxen squint. They shame their “stupid words”. They drank bittersweet alcohol to relive the memories. They ignore their friends' warnings. They're too weak to acknowledge their ex's bad qualities. And they read between the lines of their ex's lies(?) The last line also switches to “I will call you when I'm strong”, showing a will to change. The first verse follows a 'dun-DUN-DUN-DUN' 4-note piano pattern, with a howling intro and some vocal echoes. There's a thunder roll, then the pre-chorus loudly echo-clacks, as the strings are there until the tension breaks. The chorus is a vulnerable moment - it pauses for the song title; then a heartbeat, a distorted whimper, a metal tick rattle follows. Then some escalating drums. Verse #2 brings the cello, drum patters, and forceful splashes. Chorus #2 starts very shaky. And the song ends with more thunder booms and strings. In the NF, Roxen stares at themselves on the LED. Edit: this is starting to click now.

My prediction: 65% (#7 odds/ #11 scoreboard app). If they aren't running around like “Amnesia”, this will probably qualify, but I can see it being the “Bones” of 2020, where the results don't quite match the hype. It's also too similar to the most recent Eurovision winner. LIKELY.

Ukraine: Go_A - Solovey “Shum” >>> this. Kateryna's “White Voice” singing is irritating in “Solovey”; especially the chorus. The melody and the flute are rather annoying too, but I like some aspects of the electronic production. After the intro twists into view, Ihor's bouncy flute acts as a birdsong/the sound of nature (since the title means “Nightingale”), while the thunder-slam drums are spread out to be dramatic. Next, the verse hums, the snaps arrive, the slams return, and the electronic beat gets things moving partway. The song halts upon the chorus, which also hums before the rubbery drums hit. There's a flute break afterwards, where the beat moves like waves; and heightens midway with claps and broken metal ticks. Verse #2 starts growl-y and the claps come back midway. There's a steam leak, where the vocals muffle. The metal ticks set up chorus #2, which doesn't halt. And the outro slows down into roaring electric guitars, which I find clashing. The lyrics tell a story about Katrusya and Vanyusha, and repeat a lot of phrases. She goes to the valley to pick flowers, while he professes his love to her. But they can only be together until mother finds out. If Kat knew about this, she wouldn't have gotten involved. The chorus pleads the nightingale to not sing so early, since she can't handle happiness right now. The Vidbir version (before the revamp) sounds more pleasant. The stage includes a flutist and a DJ, who also play the drums, while Kateryna wears that black and red thing. There's also guitar sparks at the end. But I just cannot get past the abrasive sound of this song.

My prediction: 85% (#25 odds/ #13 scoreboard app). It's more polarizing than “Shum”, but Ukraine aren't breaking their qualification streak with this lol. Probably more of a televote fave though. LOCKED.

Predictions recap... Locked: Lithuania, Sweden, Russia, Norway, Malta, Israel, Azerbaijan, Ukraine Likely: Romania Borderline in: Belgium Borderline out: Australia, Cyprus Unlikely: Ireland, Croatia, Belarus No chance: Slovenia, North Macedonia

SF1 Winner: Sweden or Lithuania Jury winner: Sweden or Malta Televote winner: Lithuania or Russia Last place: North Macedonia

My Ranking:

01. Norway: Ulrikke - Attention 02. Israel: Eden Alene - Feker Libi 03. Lithuania: The Roop - On Fire 04. Azerbaijan: Efendi - Cleopatra 05. Malta: Destiny - All of My Love 06. Sweden: The Mamas - Move 07. Cyprus: Sandro - Running 08. Romania: Roxen - Alcohol You 09. Ireland: Lesley Roy - Story of My Life 10. Russia: Little Big - Uno

11. Belarus: VAL - Da vidna 12. Belgium: Hooverphonic - Release Me 13. Slovenia: Ana Soklič - Voda 14. Croatia: Damir Kedžo - Divlji vjetre 15. Australia: Montaigne - Don't Break Me 16. North Macedonia: Vasil - You 17. Ukraine: Go_A - Solovey

[thisandthat-whatever]

Brazilian actress Fernanda Montenegro were also robbed , she deserved much more than Gwyneth. I don't know if it's easy to find the movie Fernanda was nominated for with english subtitles, but the name is Central do Brasil

I watched it. Like I said from that year’s nominees I prefer Emily’s performance but regardless literally everyone except Gwyneth deserved it. Like Gwyneth was truly bad. That is why Weinstein buying that Oscar always sticks out to me more.

[drarreckyninja]

Bones in The Flash 'Verse

Temperance Brennan, a forensic crime scene assistant for Quantico Police Department, is struck by lightning during a storm that is created after a particle accelerator from Jeffersonian Labs explodes.

In a coma for nine months, Temperance awakens in Jeffersonian Labs, having been placed in the care of its founder Cam Saroyan and her assistants Dr. Zack Addy and Angela Montenegro. Temperance learns that she can move at extraordinary speeds and that there were other "metahumans" created from the explosion. One of them, Glen Durant, is robbing banks with his ability to control the weather. In order to stop Durant, Tempe is outfitted with a suit, designed by Angela, that can withstand her high speed. She tracks down Durant and with Detective Seeley Booth, who learns of Tempe's abilities, Tempe is able to stop Durant, who is killed by Seeley.

With her new powers, Tempe vows to exonerate her father, Max, who is incarcerated for murdering his wife, Christine, whom Tempe witnessed, at a young age, being killed by another metahuman. She chooses the alias "Bones" for her alter ego. Cam, secretly revealed to be neither paraplegic nor needing glasses, reads a newspaper from 2024 stating the missing status of the Bones.

[katrrinas]

Honestly, so disappointed about Montenegro not qualifying. She had a song about her mother dying of COVID and the carelessness of the people who don't vaccinate and, therefore, put more vulnerable society groups in danger,

but people still thought it was a usual ESC ballad and didn't let it through. Like wtf girls and guys, read the room, do your research

[artificialcaretaker]

Ok so I keep on going through the accounts of all the Nacho Girlies™️ so I can get more sustenance or whatever and I keep seeing the mf from Far Cry and I’d just like to say; Bro look NEFARIOUS. Looks like the type of mf to participate in “Devious licks”. Looks like the type of mf to brutalize a dude on the street for wearing an “Oppish color”. Looks like the type of mf to play the worst shii on the aux cord. Looks like the type of mf who does scam rap. Looks like the type of mf to not even rap. Bro probably just LECTURES on the beat. Think Scamma get Scammed as an example. Y’know what bro seems like the type of mf who PARTICIPATED in the creation of that song!!! As stated, he look NEFARIOUS. Looks like the type of mf to say the lyrics “She said ‘Baby don’t leave!’ Nah girl I reFUSE to stay” TELL ME THAT MF AINT DROP THAT BAR!!!!!!!!!!!! Anyways he look like a lil b1tch I think I’d punch that mf if I saw him with that yee yee ahh haircut lookin throws up gang signs in Instagram photos lookin “You see its not gay because if your socks are still on you aren’t fully committed to the act” lookin mf.