After Rein Alexander soared to victory with One Last Time in the second semi final of Norway’s Melodi Grand Prix – and very well deserved we might add – the time has to come to thinking about the upcoming third semi which takes place on Saturday night (25/01). Four acts appear in Bærum to fight for the chance to represent Norway at the Eurovision Song Contest. Here are our thoughts on the latest batch.
Alexandru – “Pink Jacket”
Feeling somewhat like an Eric Saade track, Pink Jacket from Alexandru – star of boyband Suite 16 – is a savvy R&B pop anthem. The nineteen year old is destined for solo success whether he makes it through to the finals or not, but we do think that with some impressive aesthetics and a performance that will reflect Alexandru’s charisma, Pink Jacket could be a hit.
Sie Gubba – “Kjære Du”
Definitely a left-field choice, Sie Gubba – a successful Norwegian party act – deliver upbeat Norwegian country anthem Kjære Du. With an undeniably infectious melody, lively instrumentation (fiddles ahoy!), and their already established name (they made it to the final of the 2011 MGP and have an impressive twelve albums to their name) – Sie Gubba are a real contender for Semi Final 3.
Kristin Husøy – “Pray For Me”
Husøy’s distinctive vocal ability elevates Pray For Me, a somewhat pedestrian mid-tempo that never quite takes off. Slickly produced and delivered well vocally, yet Pray For Me is still hugely unmemorable for us.
Thomas Løseth feat. Erika Norwich – “Vertigo”
This emotive ballad from Thomas Løseth and featuring Erika Norwich, like Husøy’s track is technically immaculate, but lacking any massively memorable qualities. Whilst Thomas and Erika’s voices blend nicely, the lyrics of track feel cliche and the structure of the track is very “that’ll do” ballad. It’s fine, but we have heard this song hundreds of times before.
