Tonight it's time to crown the 2015 Eurovision Champion. I'm excited. At my house we've had dinner and cleaned up, we're stocked with some snacks and we're ready!
I really liked the orchestra opening, there should be more orchestra at the competition. This is a song contest, so musicians are are quite important to it, and they should have a chance to shine as well. Ohh, there is an orchestra, it should stay for the performances.
It's last year's winner, Conchita. I guess it's like the Miss America Pageant and she gets a final walk.
Where is there so much black? Why can't people wear more colors?
It's the Vienna Boys Choir, and others. That's pretty cool.
Ohh, they called out all the performers, that's pretty nice, like the parade of nations at the Olympics. This is scheduled to go from 7:30 until 11:30, so it will be a late night for me. I usually hit the wall around 9:30, but I've been resting all day to be able to stay up late tonight.
My top picks from the Semi-Finals were:
Finland
Estonia
F.Y.R. Macedonia
Hungary
Denmark
Romania
Ireland
Montenegro
Israel
Sweden
Cyprus
Poland
But not all of those made it through to the Final. I'm sorry about that too, because I really thought some of the acts that didn't make it were much better than the ones that did.
Slovenia -- Maraaya, Here for You
I remember this one from the Semi-Final. I didn't like the headphones, but the announcers mentioned that it's her thing. Ohh! This is the air violin song! I'm for the air violinist. Though her costume looks like she's being filmed for computer animation. The headphones aren't plugged into anything. You'd think she could have gone wireless with those the way she did with her microphone.
France -- Lisa Angell, N'oiblies pas
This is the first new act of tonight. Ohh it's just her. But again with the black, though it is in her native tongue. The drummers are an interesting addition, though it does feel like the American Revolution photo, the Spirit of '76 with the drummers and fife player. Good performance, but not my favorite of the night.
Israel -- Nadav Guedj, Golden Boy
I really liked this one from the Semi-Final. He had the Hermes/Mercury shoes. It was a fun song. It was poppy and bouncy and fun. It does have the feel of the Mark Ronson/Bruno Mars song that was incredibly popular recently. I think it would be popular on commercial radio.
Estonia -- Elina Born & Stig Rästa, Goodbye to Yesterday
Ohh! I remember this one from the Semi-Final. I liked them, even though the shadows didn't match. It's another song that could easily be on the radio. Do people even still listen to the radio, I might be showing my age here.
United Kingdom -- Electro Velvet, Still in Love with You
I like the feel. It's a fun and bouncy. But I do wonder if the United Kingdom is really trying with their entries. I wonder if they just sending a group out of obligation, not because they want to win. The light-up costumes are cool and fun.
Armenia -- Genealogy, Face the Shadow
Yes, this one was very medieval and a bit dark for me, though it was a nice song. It's a middle of the pack performance to me, even though the announcers are pushing the Australian connection. I will not be swayed. I remember this one, the wind machine on stage didn't match the blowing leaves on the backdrop. I was thinking it could have been done a bit better.
I know it's because we're watching it on free-to-air tv, but I wish there would be different commercials. I'm not sure I want to see the same commercial twice every hour for four hours.
Lithuania -- Monika Linkytė & Vaidas Baumila, This Time
The announcers said that Monika doesn't drink water. Interesting tidbit. Maybe at another Eurovision we can check in with her to see how it's working out. This is bubblegum pop. It's fun and bright and bouncy. It wasn't one of my favorites from the Semi-Final but it's growing on me tonight. I still think live banjo would make it better. But then again, the performers don't really seem to be actually playing their instruments when they have them, so maybe it's the right decision not to have a I've banjo.
Serbia -- Bojana Stamenov, Beauty Never Lies
They are saying this is a favorite, but I didn't really care for it. It really does fell like it belongs in a Broadway musical. They look like they're having a good time performing, I hope they are.
Norway -- Mørland & Debrah Scarlett, A Monster Like Me
This one reminds me so much of someone else, but I cannot remember who. It's a nice song, bout not one of my favorites. The girl looks like she can't decide what to do with her free hand, like she's counting out the music or time or something, but then catches herself doing it and remembers she's not supposed to be. Good performance, but not my favorite.
Sweden -- Måns Zelmerlöw, Heroes
This is the one the announcers keep calling the favorite. I know that means I should like it, and I do, it's in my top 12, but it's not my favorite. The animation was cool. It's definitely radio material, or dance club material, possibly. I've never been to a dance club, but this is the kind of thing would expect to find there if I ever went to one. I can see this song making the jump from Europe to the US market.
Cyprus -- John Karayiannis, One Thing I Should Have Done
I liked this one from the Semi-Final a lot. And now I remember who it reminds me of … Michael Bublé. This is the kind of song that goes during a montage in a romantic comedy movie, when the lead is trying to figure out how they lost the girl and how to get her back. I like it but I'm pretty sure it's not Eurovision Winner material.
Australia -- Guy Sebastian, Tonight Again
I know I'm supposed to like this because it's Australia, but I have heard it so much during the ads for Eurovision that I'm kind of over it from overexposure. The choreography is nice, but I still think SBS did themselves a disservice by playing snippets so much during the lead-up. Of course, Australia can't vote for their own entry, so it hardly matters if it's been played to death here. I hope he had a great time and he looked like he was happy during the performance. Good luck Australia.
Belgium -- Loïc Nottet, Rhythm Inside
I didn't really like this one in the Semi-Finals, but it's growing on me tonight. I hope he does very well, definitely one of my favorites of the night.
Austria -- The Makemakes, I Am Yours
I like that they're playing instruments. I think the best part of this performance was really the commentary before it began. It's not terrible. Ackk! Sir, your piano is on fire, I's leave the arena quietly, calmly, and quickly. This was not my favorite, then again, I'm not a hipster, so I'm really not the target audience. I wonder if he really burned up the piano…
Greece -- Maria Elena Kyriakou, One Last Breath
I didn't like this song in the Semi-Finals and it's not gotten better. It's Céline Dion without the French accent.
Twelve songs to go and I'm getting a bit tired. Maybe my resting up during the day was not enough.
Montenegro -- Knez, Adio
I really like that this song is in Montenegrin. I really liked this one from the Semi-Finals. I was really excited when it made it through to the Finals. My housemate's mother was a big fan of Rex Stout's character, Nero Wolfe, who was Montenegrin. This performer looks kind of like what I think Nero Wolfe looks like.
Germany -- Anne Sophie, Black Smoke
The announcers said she was really the runner-up in the German contest, but the winner gave up his spot. The animation looks kind of like a Fresnel lens. It's a good performance, but I think it's not good enough to overcome the favorites.
Poland -- Monika Kuszyńska, In the Name of Love
I liked this one. I enjoyed it. How many pianos are there backstage? I know this one isn't going to win, but I really do like it.
Latvia -- Aminata, Love Injected
I kind of liked this one during the semi-finals, but it's not doing it for me tonight.
Snack break. We have chocolate covered marshmallows again tonight. And there are still some Double Chocolate Chunk Brownies. It's a real treat.
Romania -- Voltaj, De la capǎt (All Over Again)
This one starts out in Romanian, but moves to English. I like that. I really did like this one in the Semi-Finals and I like it as much today. It's making it hard to pick my favorites, but this is definitely one of them.
Spain -- Edurne, Amanecer
Little Red Riding Hood? She's going to take off this dress. Called it! I lost this performance in the middle somewhere and couldn't get it back. Not my favorite.
Hungary -- Boggie, Wars for Nothing
This one was one of my favorites in the Semi-Finals. The quietness was nice. I can see why it won't win, but it's still a nice song. Buried on an album, this is the kind of song that rewards listeners for buying the album and not just singles. And I'd definitely buy this album.
Georgia -- Nina Sublatti, Warrior
This was a bit scary. I didn't really like it.
Azerbaijan -- Elnur Hüseynov, Hour of the Wolf
Yes, this is the one with the distracting dancers. The hashtag on the screen looks like it reads "Azerbaijan Haze" which is kind is of interesting, given the foggy background. Nice song, but not a favorite.
Russia -- Polina Gagarina, A Million Voices
The dress is a bit of a distraction to this performance. She really does seem like she is fighting not moving around the stage. And this is the kind of song that would be good with the performers moving around. The drummer isn't doing too well with the music. He's literally a bit early on the beat. It's a nice song, but not my favorite.
Albania -- Elhaida Dani, I'm Alive
I do not remember this performance from the Semi-Finals. Checking my notes, yep, it was forgettable even before it was over. And it's no more memorable this time.
Italy -- Il Volo, Grande Amore
Last song of the night, and it's new tonight. I do like the simplicity of the performance. Sometimes a good performance is more important than great effects. It's a nice song, but it does feel as though Italy is phoning it in.
So that's it. It's all over but the voting. I'm going to stay up and watch the voting, because Australia's votes will be announced by Lee Lin Chin and she's great, but I won't recap it here.
Favorites of the night:
Israel
Estonia
Cyprus
Montenegro
Romania
Hungary
Good Luck to the performers.
Thanks for tuning in to Eurovision 2015 with me, I hope you enjoyed it,
Tigger.
Sunday, May 24, 2015
Saturday, May 23, 2015
Eurovision 2015, Semi-Final 2, A Live-ish Review
Semi-Final Part 2 is starting soon. We've had dinner at my house (Sweet Potato Chili) and have moved on to dessert (my housemate made Double Chocolate Chunk Brownies) so we are ready. There is also a bag of chips in the pantry and some wine, cider, and beer in the fridge should we need any of those libations. I'm sticking to ginger ale, but I'm happy to share.
The opening number is much like the parade of States at the Miss America Contest, which is fun, but it would be more fun if the acts were in native costumes, or some theme costume. But maybe that's just me. It was a bouncy beginning, and that's a good start as far as I'm concerned.
I think it's nice that the host country always gets an automatic bid to the final, but I think the other Big 5 should have to compete. This is not the UN, it's not a security council. It would be more fun for me if everyone had to compete in the semi-final.
Lithuania -- Monika Linkytė & Vaidas Baumila, This Time
I like her dress. And it's a happy song to start the night. I would be better if the backup were playing the instruments. I really think an on-stage banjo would bring out the best in this performance. It was a fun song, but I doubt it will get through to the Final.
Ireland -- Molly Sterling, Playing with Numbers
Ohh she's playing her instrument. And the announcers said she has a pet donkey! That's very nice. I like her already. Ohh…I like the piano, I like being able to see the hammers striking the strings. It's a bouncy thing. I like her. She's definitely in my list of top 10.
San Marino -- Michele Perniola & Anita Simoncini, Chain of Lights
Ohh, I like this postcard. This is starting out like a song from a Broadway show. I like the beginning of the chorus, but it really does feel like a Broadway show tune.
Montenegro -- Knez, Adio
The announcers said this is one of the few songs not in English tonight. Yeah for Montenegro! I do like the violin. I wish the broadcast would stop with the subtitles. I like this one. The singer is not a dancer, which is okay, and makes for some interesting choreography. The only thing I wish would be that they would not have taken the Black Mountain so seriously in the costumes.
Malta -- Amber, Warrior
The is the second song titled Warrior in the contest, maybe it's part of the theme, like Building Bridges. I like that it's just the singer on stage. I prefer this Warrior to last night's, but I'm not sure if it falls in my favorites for the night. The background seemed to fit more with a Phoenix idea than Warriors, but it was not a bad performance.
I am really loving the interview with Ireland's contestant. I want to see the donkey host Eurovision! Come on people, Vote for the donkey!
Norway -- Mørland & Debrah Scarlett, A Monster Like Me
I like this one so far. The words are sad, but the music is not so much. It's not a bad performance, and sure to be one of the favorites of the night.
Portugal -- Leonor Andrade, Há um mar que nos separa
Ohh! The song is in Portuguese. Good for her, singing in her native tongue. I can't decide if I like this one or not. I'm leaning toward yes, but I'm not really sure.
Czech Republic -- Marta Jandová & Václav Noid Bárta, Hope Never Dies
Ohh, scary bridge in the postcard. Throwing her shoes was interesting, and timed well in the dramatic part of the song. Not a bad performance, but a bit flat and plain.
Israel -- Nadav Guedj, Golden Boy
The announcers say to watch out for the shoes. They're Mercury/Hermes shoes! Ohh, I like this one. It's fun and bouncy. Best of the night so far! (Who cares if they're not technically in Europe.)
Latvia -- Aminata, Love Injected
This one is interesting. She gives off a native peoples feel and I'm not sure if she is supposed to or is it just me projecting. This is another dress that looks very nice, but makes it seem like the performer is fighting standing still. This is a middle of road performance for me.
Azerbaijan -- Elnur Hüseynov, Hour of the Wolf
I like the song, but not the dancers. I think they could have done a better job bringing this song to life in the performance. I'm not sure of the distracting dancers are enough to drop this to the bottom of my list or not.
One of things I like best about Eurovision is seeing the names from all the countries. Some of them are familiar, but some are not and that's pretty interesting.
Iceland -- María Ólafs, Unbroken
Footprints and a tutu? It's an interesting song, and feels like it could be a crowd favorite, but it's only so-so for me.
Sweden -- Måns Zelmerlöw, Heroes
This is the favorite. I wish they hadn't said that. I'd rather pick my own favorites. The interactive background is interesting. It was a good song, and a performance, definitely in my top for the night, but I felt like it had to be because it was already proclaimed as the favorite of the night.
Switzerland -- Mélanie René, Time to Shine
Most Americans don't know the difference between Sweden and Switzerland, so it's interesting the countries' performances are back to back here. Why have drums if they are being played in time with the music? It wasn't bad, but not my favorite.
Cyprus -- John Karayiannis, One Thing I Should Have Done
Ohh I like this one already! But maybe because it sounds familiar. I'm not sure who it sounds like, but it does sound familiar. I really enjoyed this one. It was simple and well-done, which is probably a guarantee it's not going through to the final.
Slovenia -- Maraaya, Here for You
The announcers are teasing this performance. The air violin is interesting. I wonder if there is an international competition for air violinists? It's a crowd favorite, but not really one of mine.
Poland -- Monika Kuszyńska, In the Name of Love
I really like this one. It's another simple performance, nothing fancy.
So that's it. Semi-Final Part two is over. There were some ups and downs tonight. My picks to go through: Ireland, Montenegro, Israel, Sweden, Cyprus, and Poland.
I'm looking forward to the Final tomorrow night, though I know some of my favorite acts didn't make it. That does mean it will be harder to pick my favorites.
The opening number is much like the parade of States at the Miss America Contest, which is fun, but it would be more fun if the acts were in native costumes, or some theme costume. But maybe that's just me. It was a bouncy beginning, and that's a good start as far as I'm concerned.
I think it's nice that the host country always gets an automatic bid to the final, but I think the other Big 5 should have to compete. This is not the UN, it's not a security council. It would be more fun for me if everyone had to compete in the semi-final.
Lithuania -- Monika Linkytė & Vaidas Baumila, This Time
I like her dress. And it's a happy song to start the night. I would be better if the backup were playing the instruments. I really think an on-stage banjo would bring out the best in this performance. It was a fun song, but I doubt it will get through to the Final.
Ireland -- Molly Sterling, Playing with Numbers
Ohh she's playing her instrument. And the announcers said she has a pet donkey! That's very nice. I like her already. Ohh…I like the piano, I like being able to see the hammers striking the strings. It's a bouncy thing. I like her. She's definitely in my list of top 10.
San Marino -- Michele Perniola & Anita Simoncini, Chain of Lights
Ohh, I like this postcard. This is starting out like a song from a Broadway show. I like the beginning of the chorus, but it really does feel like a Broadway show tune.
Montenegro -- Knez, Adio
The announcers said this is one of the few songs not in English tonight. Yeah for Montenegro! I do like the violin. I wish the broadcast would stop with the subtitles. I like this one. The singer is not a dancer, which is okay, and makes for some interesting choreography. The only thing I wish would be that they would not have taken the Black Mountain so seriously in the costumes.
Malta -- Amber, Warrior
The is the second song titled Warrior in the contest, maybe it's part of the theme, like Building Bridges. I like that it's just the singer on stage. I prefer this Warrior to last night's, but I'm not sure if it falls in my favorites for the night. The background seemed to fit more with a Phoenix idea than Warriors, but it was not a bad performance.
I am really loving the interview with Ireland's contestant. I want to see the donkey host Eurovision! Come on people, Vote for the donkey!
Norway -- Mørland & Debrah Scarlett, A Monster Like Me
I like this one so far. The words are sad, but the music is not so much. It's not a bad performance, and sure to be one of the favorites of the night.
Portugal -- Leonor Andrade, Há um mar que nos separa
Ohh! The song is in Portuguese. Good for her, singing in her native tongue. I can't decide if I like this one or not. I'm leaning toward yes, but I'm not really sure.
Czech Republic -- Marta Jandová & Václav Noid Bárta, Hope Never Dies
Ohh, scary bridge in the postcard. Throwing her shoes was interesting, and timed well in the dramatic part of the song. Not a bad performance, but a bit flat and plain.
Israel -- Nadav Guedj, Golden Boy
The announcers say to watch out for the shoes. They're Mercury/Hermes shoes! Ohh, I like this one. It's fun and bouncy. Best of the night so far! (Who cares if they're not technically in Europe.)
Latvia -- Aminata, Love Injected
This one is interesting. She gives off a native peoples feel and I'm not sure if she is supposed to or is it just me projecting. This is another dress that looks very nice, but makes it seem like the performer is fighting standing still. This is a middle of road performance for me.
Azerbaijan -- Elnur Hüseynov, Hour of the Wolf
I like the song, but not the dancers. I think they could have done a better job bringing this song to life in the performance. I'm not sure of the distracting dancers are enough to drop this to the bottom of my list or not.
One of things I like best about Eurovision is seeing the names from all the countries. Some of them are familiar, but some are not and that's pretty interesting.
Iceland -- María Ólafs, Unbroken
Footprints and a tutu? It's an interesting song, and feels like it could be a crowd favorite, but it's only so-so for me.
Sweden -- Måns Zelmerlöw, Heroes
This is the favorite. I wish they hadn't said that. I'd rather pick my own favorites. The interactive background is interesting. It was a good song, and a performance, definitely in my top for the night, but I felt like it had to be because it was already proclaimed as the favorite of the night.
Switzerland -- Mélanie René, Time to Shine
Most Americans don't know the difference between Sweden and Switzerland, so it's interesting the countries' performances are back to back here. Why have drums if they are being played in time with the music? It wasn't bad, but not my favorite.
Cyprus -- John Karayiannis, One Thing I Should Have Done
Ohh I like this one already! But maybe because it sounds familiar. I'm not sure who it sounds like, but it does sound familiar. I really enjoyed this one. It was simple and well-done, which is probably a guarantee it's not going through to the final.
Slovenia -- Maraaya, Here for You
The announcers are teasing this performance. The air violin is interesting. I wonder if there is an international competition for air violinists? It's a crowd favorite, but not really one of mine.
Poland -- Monika Kuszyńska, In the Name of Love
I really like this one. It's another simple performance, nothing fancy.
So that's it. Semi-Final Part two is over. There were some ups and downs tonight. My picks to go through: Ireland, Montenegro, Israel, Sweden, Cyprus, and Poland.
I'm looking forward to the Final tomorrow night, though I know some of my favorite acts didn't make it. That does mean it will be harder to pick my favorites.
Friday, May 22, 2015
Eurovision 2015, Semi-Final 1, A Live-ish Review
I am so excited to be back reviewing Eurovision. And I am very thankful to Oliver and Spencer for the opportunity to post this at their blog. (I don't write enough to warrant one of my own, but my friends the bears are great to list me borrow theirs.)
It's starting. I'm so very excited. It's Semi-Final Part One tonight. Yes, I know it's been over for days in Europe, but I have avoided all spoilers about Eurovision so this is all new to me.
Eurovision is opening with a reprise of last year's winner. I liked Conchita's performance, but it wasn't my favorite. I have a feeling that may be the way of Eurovision and me.
The hosts have just come out. It's interesting there are three women.
Moldova -- Eduard Romanyuta, I Want Your Love
I keep thinking of the line from R.E.D., but I'm trying not to let that influence my opinion. Though he is not a native Moldovan, and that may influence me. Rats! Singing in English. I like it better if they sing in their native tongue. I liked the song, but not the performance; the lights and dancers are a bit distracting.
Armenia -- Genealogy, Face the Shadow
It's nice that the group is made up of members from all over. That's really nice. Another group singing in English. I don't particularly like the costumes. They seem a bit heavy and dark for the song. And they do nothing to change the church choir feeling.
I liked the postcards better last year, with the contestants all making their national flags.
Belgium -- Loïc Nottet, Rhythm Inside
Another English song. It's not bad at the beginning, but does remind me of someone else. Singing from laying down was impressive. I really don't mind this one.
The Netherlands -- Trijntje Oosterhuis, Walk Along
It's a ladybug balloon (in the postcard). That's cool. The close-up camera effects of the singer on stage must be only for the television audience, it would be difficult to do it in person. Her costume is odd. Ackk! the video froze there. Whew, we got it back. It was an okay song, but I really felt like it needed more.
Finland -- Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät, Aina mun pitää
I'm glad they're signing in their native tongue but I'm not sure the subtitles are necessary. It kind of takes away from the performance. They were good and seemed happy to be there and performing. Best act so far, but they will not move on to the Final.
Greece -- Maria Elena Kyriakou, One Last Breath
I like that she's by herself with only the pianist, but again, I'm disappointed by the sing being sung in English. It sounds and looks very much like Céline Dion. That's not a criticism, just a fact. Not bad, solidly in the middle to move on to the Final.
Estonia -- Elina Born & Stig Rästa, Goodbye to Yesterday
Ohh, I think I already like this one. It's simple, so far. The shadows on the floor do not match the performers. That's distracting.
Why are so many of the songs sung in English? The theme for this year's Eurovision is "Building Bridges" and you'd think that bridges would be built more effectively if we used the music, a universal language to build the bridges, rather than just English. You'd think this was being broadcast in the US where people really only speak English.
F.Y.R. Macedonia -- Daniel Kajmakoski, Autumn Leaves
So many of the acts tonight remind me of other performers, but I really can't remember who. This performance is no different. The back-up singers feel just a bit out of time to me. Ohh, I like that part of the music. This one ranks in the top three so far.
Serbia -- Bojana Stamenov, Beauty Never Lies
I like the song and the message, but the back-up singers look like they came straight from a performance of Phantom of the Opera. Wow! That was a dramatic change in the song. Solid middle performance.
Silly school-boy giggle at Hungary, especially since we've just busted out the snacks in my house.
Hungary -- Boggie, Wars for Nothing
Ohh, pretty dress and a pretty lady. This is a quiet song, for quiet times. The announcers mentioned there was "stillness" and that's what it is. Definitely one of the best of the evening.
Belarus -- Uzari & Maimuna, Time
This is a nice song, but the violinist is getting lost. And that's too bad. I would have enjoyed this much more if the violin were more prominent throughout the song.
Russia -- Polina Gagarina, A Million Voices
This song is going to get loud; they never start soft like this if they are going to stay that way. The dress is pretty cool, but it does mean she can't move too much and she looks like she's fighting an urge to move around. The clear instruments are cool, but I'm not sure they're necessary. This is definitely a crowd favorite. I would be very surprised if it does not go through to the Final.
Denmark -- Anti Social Media, The Way You Are
Not a bad song, feels very poppy. It's fun and bouncy, but very Top 40 Radio Summer Song. I can hear this on repeat every day for the entire summer. Definitely the most "me" song of the evening.
Albania -- Elhaida Dani, I'm Alive
I wish I could say something about this song. But it's not even over and it's a bit forgettable. I feel bad saying that, and I'm not trying to be mean, I just don't know what else to say.
Romania -- Voltaj, De la capǎt (All Over Again)
Fantastic! Native language song, but enough with the subtitles, they are distracting. Let the song speak for itself. And there, the song moves to English. The subtitles were not necessary anyway. That was fantastic, a best of night.
Georgia -- Nina Sublatti, Warrior
Scary opening. Good performance. Not my favorite, but still a very god performance.
So that's it for tonight. Ten of the sixteen go through to the Final. I'm glad I'm not responsible for narrowing it down. My tops: Finland, Estonia, F.Y.R. Macedonia, Hungary, Denmark, and Romania. I'm really having trouble picking the last four I want to go through. I'll be happy for any of the remaining acts to go through.
More to come tomorrow night.
See you then,
Tigger
It's starting. I'm so very excited. It's Semi-Final Part One tonight. Yes, I know it's been over for days in Europe, but I have avoided all spoilers about Eurovision so this is all new to me.
Eurovision is opening with a reprise of last year's winner. I liked Conchita's performance, but it wasn't my favorite. I have a feeling that may be the way of Eurovision and me.
The hosts have just come out. It's interesting there are three women.
Moldova -- Eduard Romanyuta, I Want Your Love
I keep thinking of the line from R.E.D., but I'm trying not to let that influence my opinion. Though he is not a native Moldovan, and that may influence me. Rats! Singing in English. I like it better if they sing in their native tongue. I liked the song, but not the performance; the lights and dancers are a bit distracting.
Armenia -- Genealogy, Face the Shadow
It's nice that the group is made up of members from all over. That's really nice. Another group singing in English. I don't particularly like the costumes. They seem a bit heavy and dark for the song. And they do nothing to change the church choir feeling.
I liked the postcards better last year, with the contestants all making their national flags.
Belgium -- Loïc Nottet, Rhythm Inside
Another English song. It's not bad at the beginning, but does remind me of someone else. Singing from laying down was impressive. I really don't mind this one.
The Netherlands -- Trijntje Oosterhuis, Walk Along
It's a ladybug balloon (in the postcard). That's cool. The close-up camera effects of the singer on stage must be only for the television audience, it would be difficult to do it in person. Her costume is odd. Ackk! the video froze there. Whew, we got it back. It was an okay song, but I really felt like it needed more.
Finland -- Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät, Aina mun pitää
I'm glad they're signing in their native tongue but I'm not sure the subtitles are necessary. It kind of takes away from the performance. They were good and seemed happy to be there and performing. Best act so far, but they will not move on to the Final.
Greece -- Maria Elena Kyriakou, One Last Breath
I like that she's by herself with only the pianist, but again, I'm disappointed by the sing being sung in English. It sounds and looks very much like Céline Dion. That's not a criticism, just a fact. Not bad, solidly in the middle to move on to the Final.
Estonia -- Elina Born & Stig Rästa, Goodbye to Yesterday
Ohh, I think I already like this one. It's simple, so far. The shadows on the floor do not match the performers. That's distracting.
Why are so many of the songs sung in English? The theme for this year's Eurovision is "Building Bridges" and you'd think that bridges would be built more effectively if we used the music, a universal language to build the bridges, rather than just English. You'd think this was being broadcast in the US where people really only speak English.
F.Y.R. Macedonia -- Daniel Kajmakoski, Autumn Leaves
So many of the acts tonight remind me of other performers, but I really can't remember who. This performance is no different. The back-up singers feel just a bit out of time to me. Ohh, I like that part of the music. This one ranks in the top three so far.
Serbia -- Bojana Stamenov, Beauty Never Lies
I like the song and the message, but the back-up singers look like they came straight from a performance of Phantom of the Opera. Wow! That was a dramatic change in the song. Solid middle performance.
Silly school-boy giggle at Hungary, especially since we've just busted out the snacks in my house.
Hungary -- Boggie, Wars for Nothing
Ohh, pretty dress and a pretty lady. This is a quiet song, for quiet times. The announcers mentioned there was "stillness" and that's what it is. Definitely one of the best of the evening.
Belarus -- Uzari & Maimuna, Time
This is a nice song, but the violinist is getting lost. And that's too bad. I would have enjoyed this much more if the violin were more prominent throughout the song.
Russia -- Polina Gagarina, A Million Voices
This song is going to get loud; they never start soft like this if they are going to stay that way. The dress is pretty cool, but it does mean she can't move too much and she looks like she's fighting an urge to move around. The clear instruments are cool, but I'm not sure they're necessary. This is definitely a crowd favorite. I would be very surprised if it does not go through to the Final.
Denmark -- Anti Social Media, The Way You Are
Not a bad song, feels very poppy. It's fun and bouncy, but very Top 40 Radio Summer Song. I can hear this on repeat every day for the entire summer. Definitely the most "me" song of the evening.
Albania -- Elhaida Dani, I'm Alive
I wish I could say something about this song. But it's not even over and it's a bit forgettable. I feel bad saying that, and I'm not trying to be mean, I just don't know what else to say.
Romania -- Voltaj, De la capǎt (All Over Again)
Fantastic! Native language song, but enough with the subtitles, they are distracting. Let the song speak for itself. And there, the song moves to English. The subtitles were not necessary anyway. That was fantastic, a best of night.
Georgia -- Nina Sublatti, Warrior
Scary opening. Good performance. Not my favorite, but still a very god performance.
So that's it for tonight. Ten of the sixteen go through to the Final. I'm glad I'm not responsible for narrowing it down. My tops: Finland, Estonia, F.Y.R. Macedonia, Hungary, Denmark, and Romania. I'm really having trouble picking the last four I want to go through. I'll be happy for any of the remaining acts to go through.
More to come tomorrow night.
See you then,
Tigger
Tuesday, May 12, 2015
Budget Night, A Bear's Perspective
As I prepare for the fifth Budget Night since I moved to Australia, I admit I am a bit excited. I have snacks and drinks, and suitably soft yet satisfying things to throw at the television as the Treasurer delivers the budget to the not-so-interested nation. (I fully admit to not liking this particular reality tv cast, and really wish the nation could go straight to the "voting them off the island" part of the season.)
The Minister for Social Services has been teasing parts of the budget for a few days now. And the Minister for Education says he's "fixed" the mess that was made of University funding and fees last year, but is irritatingly quiet about how he "fixed" it. The rest of the budget team is falling all over themselves to convince the populace that this is a "dull" and uninteresting budget. This kind of secretive hints, suspicious verbal "wink-winks" and the over-eagerness of the remaining Ministers to convince the world this is just a bunch of dull numbers, only leads the conspiracy theorist in me to think there are a binder full of cuts and "savings" that the average Australian will not like to be delivered tonight. I am torn between wanting to remain blissfully ignorant of the plan and not wanting to miss the announcement of yet another colossal failure of an announcement.
By and large the Budget has no real effect on me, after all, I'm a bear. But that does not mean I'm not interested. My housemates have to deal with the changes brought on by the budget -- and I know they are still waiting for the $500 the government promised would be returned to all Australian households by repealing the Carbon Tax last year. They complain often that their electric bills actually went UP after the Carbon Tax was repealed. Still, I'm a politically interested and informed bear, and I like to know what was really said, rather than what the talking heads in the media want me to think was said.
So my day's work is done, my friends have turned to their books or other personal pursuits and I am ready for Budget Night 2015.
It's just about to start. I still have time to turn over for MasterChef, but I'm pretty sure that would make my housemate as stabby and ragey as this Budget speech is likely to make me. I've decided it would be so much nicer if the Minister for Education wasn't seated directly behind the Dispatch Box. It's distracting enough to watch the smirk during Question Time; I'm going to have to try very hard to block it out tonight (and not waste my few projectiles on the smirk).
The weather report is just ending now -- rainy and windy tomorrow. Ohh, my housemate may have trouble walking to and from the grocery. Okay, we've just thrown to Canberra… I really like the pomp and circumstance of the State of the Union better, when the President comes into the House. There is something much more official and less work-a-day about that.
Interesting that the Prime Minister is sitting on the front bench and not at the table across from the Opposition Leader.
I am speaking directly to the people of Australia.
You should listen to them as well as speak to them.
The timetable back to surplus is unchanged since last year.
First blaming of the previous government, and the mention of the "$96M borrowed everyday just to pay the bills."
Australians are paying less for their electricity and less on their mortgages.
Defaulting doesn't count as paying less, Mr. Treasurer.
This budget gives Australians the opportunity and the freedom to participate in the workforce.
But you're not funding training for the jobs.
The demand for our exports to China will continue to increase.
Not if they can get those things cheaper from some other country.
It will add $50 billion to our economy every year.
Again, not if the other countries can get the same things cheaper elsewhere. Never build your budget on the actions of others not under your control.
This budget empowers small business to invest, grow and great jobs.
Still no mention of training for those potential workers.
Every small business will get a tax cut.
And what are your plans to recoup that lost tax revenue?
We are making it easier for small businesses to attract the employees they need.
And yet, again, no mention of training for those potential workers.
Farmers are our very best environmentalists.
You don't believe in climate change, so why does that matter enough to mention?
Farmers can deduct the cost of new fencing from their tax bills.
Is this just another way to ensure our borders are tight?
The North needs new infrastructure in order to grow.
Wow, you might have just realized there is more to the country than Sydney.
We want all Australians to be able to get a job and stay in a job.
Subsidies are great, but you are still not funding training.
There will be no new taxes on superannuation in this budget.
But you're not commenting on re-indexations or new fees that may be imposed.
The Medical Research Future Fund will distribute $4 million from the fund for research and development.
But how are you funding it? The co-pay plan was scratched.
We will commit $450 million to boosting intelligence capabilities. We must have the best counter-terrorism capabilities available.
That's why we need to keep all your metadata.
We want companies that are avoiding paying their taxes to pay their fair share.
Because that will certainly encourage multi-nationals to move to Australia and employ more Australians.
Foreign business supplying digital products or services to Australians will be subject to GST.
As if there is not already a premium on all goods and services imported to Australia. It is actually cheaper to fly to San Francisco and purchase software there than it is to purchase it locally.
Every nation must live within its means.
You keep saying that, Mr. Treasurer, but surely you realize national budgets are not like household budgets. If they were, most countries would have been forced into involuntary bankruptcy several times over.
This is a budget that is responsible, measured, and fair.
I know I say it a lot, but I don't think those words mean what you think they mean, Mr. Treasurer.
I do not think that was a "reading" of the bill. I think that was a speech urging the passing of the bill. When the Treasurer started by saying he was going to read the bill, I really thought he was going to read the bill, not a prepared speech in favor of the bill.
The Speaker finished by saying "the debate must be adjourned." There was no debate. It was a one-sided monologue. It was a lecture. And frankly, the professor needed to be called out for frank, glaring errors several times.
Now we're on to comment and discussion by the talking heads of the media. Overall, it was an interesting speech, but I wonder at the math skills of the government. There are plenty of announced tax invectives, but no real discussion of tax collections. I am not sure from where the money for the announced plans will be coming. I'm pretty sure the plan of getting multi-national companies to pay their "fair share" will not work the way the treasurer is hoping it will.
While the Budget Lecture neglected to mention that visas are going to get more expensive (another clue it was not a true "reading" of the bill), the analysis did not. My housemate is an immigrant, and the price of a visa was very much a consideration for her. This may be just another sneaky way to ensure the borders are secure.
During the newscast prior to the Budget Address there was a report of the NAPLAN testing, a national standardized test for students. I think the government needs to prove they can pass the maths section without help, because I am really questioning their ability to add 2 + 2 and get 4. Heck, I'm not even sure they can add 1 + 1 and get 2.
All right, that's it. I'm sure I'll have more to say on the subject later, but for now I think I have to go bang my head against the wall for a while. It will hurt less when I stop. Besides, there is pumpkin pie for dessert. Wait! That's it. We could use actual pies to explain the math to the government. But I am not sharing my pumpkin pie.
The Minister for Social Services has been teasing parts of the budget for a few days now. And the Minister for Education says he's "fixed" the mess that was made of University funding and fees last year, but is irritatingly quiet about how he "fixed" it. The rest of the budget team is falling all over themselves to convince the populace that this is a "dull" and uninteresting budget. This kind of secretive hints, suspicious verbal "wink-winks" and the over-eagerness of the remaining Ministers to convince the world this is just a bunch of dull numbers, only leads the conspiracy theorist in me to think there are a binder full of cuts and "savings" that the average Australian will not like to be delivered tonight. I am torn between wanting to remain blissfully ignorant of the plan and not wanting to miss the announcement of yet another colossal failure of an announcement.
By and large the Budget has no real effect on me, after all, I'm a bear. But that does not mean I'm not interested. My housemates have to deal with the changes brought on by the budget -- and I know they are still waiting for the $500 the government promised would be returned to all Australian households by repealing the Carbon Tax last year. They complain often that their electric bills actually went UP after the Carbon Tax was repealed. Still, I'm a politically interested and informed bear, and I like to know what was really said, rather than what the talking heads in the media want me to think was said.
So my day's work is done, my friends have turned to their books or other personal pursuits and I am ready for Budget Night 2015.
It's just about to start. I still have time to turn over for MasterChef, but I'm pretty sure that would make my housemate as stabby and ragey as this Budget speech is likely to make me. I've decided it would be so much nicer if the Minister for Education wasn't seated directly behind the Dispatch Box. It's distracting enough to watch the smirk during Question Time; I'm going to have to try very hard to block it out tonight (and not waste my few projectiles on the smirk).
The weather report is just ending now -- rainy and windy tomorrow. Ohh, my housemate may have trouble walking to and from the grocery. Okay, we've just thrown to Canberra… I really like the pomp and circumstance of the State of the Union better, when the President comes into the House. There is something much more official and less work-a-day about that.
Interesting that the Prime Minister is sitting on the front bench and not at the table across from the Opposition Leader.
I am speaking directly to the people of Australia.
You should listen to them as well as speak to them.
The timetable back to surplus is unchanged since last year.
First blaming of the previous government, and the mention of the "$96M borrowed everyday just to pay the bills."
Australians are paying less for their electricity and less on their mortgages.
Defaulting doesn't count as paying less, Mr. Treasurer.
This budget gives Australians the opportunity and the freedom to participate in the workforce.
But you're not funding training for the jobs.
The demand for our exports to China will continue to increase.
Not if they can get those things cheaper from some other country.
It will add $50 billion to our economy every year.
Again, not if the other countries can get the same things cheaper elsewhere. Never build your budget on the actions of others not under your control.
This budget empowers small business to invest, grow and great jobs.
Still no mention of training for those potential workers.
Every small business will get a tax cut.
And what are your plans to recoup that lost tax revenue?
We are making it easier for small businesses to attract the employees they need.
And yet, again, no mention of training for those potential workers.
Farmers are our very best environmentalists.
You don't believe in climate change, so why does that matter enough to mention?
Farmers can deduct the cost of new fencing from their tax bills.
Is this just another way to ensure our borders are tight?
The North needs new infrastructure in order to grow.
Wow, you might have just realized there is more to the country than Sydney.
We want all Australians to be able to get a job and stay in a job.
Subsidies are great, but you are still not funding training.
There will be no new taxes on superannuation in this budget.
But you're not commenting on re-indexations or new fees that may be imposed.
The Medical Research Future Fund will distribute $4 million from the fund for research and development.
But how are you funding it? The co-pay plan was scratched.
We will commit $450 million to boosting intelligence capabilities. We must have the best counter-terrorism capabilities available.
That's why we need to keep all your metadata.
We want companies that are avoiding paying their taxes to pay their fair share.
Because that will certainly encourage multi-nationals to move to Australia and employ more Australians.
Foreign business supplying digital products or services to Australians will be subject to GST.
As if there is not already a premium on all goods and services imported to Australia. It is actually cheaper to fly to San Francisco and purchase software there than it is to purchase it locally.
Every nation must live within its means.
You keep saying that, Mr. Treasurer, but surely you realize national budgets are not like household budgets. If they were, most countries would have been forced into involuntary bankruptcy several times over.
This is a budget that is responsible, measured, and fair.
I know I say it a lot, but I don't think those words mean what you think they mean, Mr. Treasurer.
I do not think that was a "reading" of the bill. I think that was a speech urging the passing of the bill. When the Treasurer started by saying he was going to read the bill, I really thought he was going to read the bill, not a prepared speech in favor of the bill.
The Speaker finished by saying "the debate must be adjourned." There was no debate. It was a one-sided monologue. It was a lecture. And frankly, the professor needed to be called out for frank, glaring errors several times.
Now we're on to comment and discussion by the talking heads of the media. Overall, it was an interesting speech, but I wonder at the math skills of the government. There are plenty of announced tax invectives, but no real discussion of tax collections. I am not sure from where the money for the announced plans will be coming. I'm pretty sure the plan of getting multi-national companies to pay their "fair share" will not work the way the treasurer is hoping it will.
While the Budget Lecture neglected to mention that visas are going to get more expensive (another clue it was not a true "reading" of the bill), the analysis did not. My housemate is an immigrant, and the price of a visa was very much a consideration for her. This may be just another sneaky way to ensure the borders are secure.
During the newscast prior to the Budget Address there was a report of the NAPLAN testing, a national standardized test for students. I think the government needs to prove they can pass the maths section without help, because I am really questioning their ability to add 2 + 2 and get 4. Heck, I'm not even sure they can add 1 + 1 and get 2.
All right, that's it. I'm sure I'll have more to say on the subject later, but for now I think I have to go bang my head against the wall for a while. It will hurt less when I stop. Besides, there is pumpkin pie for dessert. Wait! That's it. We could use actual pies to explain the math to the government. But I am not sharing my pumpkin pie.
Thursday, May 7, 2015
One Bear's Opinion -- Book Review
An Old Betrayal by Charles Finch
Back to books that are old friends. An Old Betrayal is the seventh book in the Charles Lenox series of mysteries. With the other books in the series, each one builds on the next in such a way that it's better to have read them in order and from the beginning, if only to get a feel for the characters. This is a departure from that. I'm not sure if it is a signal that the series is going to take a dramatic turn or what, but it is not necessary to have read the previous books to read this one. The characters are re-introduced so well to readers that it could be mistaken for a first book in the series.
The main mystery was quite interesting and well crafted, but the secondary plot mysteries were even more so. I really felt the sub-plots took pride of place in this visit, and it was not at all unwelcome. Earlier stories had Charles [Lenox] outside the comfort sphere the author had developed for him and were uneven and ragged as to his involvement in the solving of the mystery. I was beginning to be disappointed with the visits of this not-so-very-old friend. And that was really distressing me. I really like Charles Lenox, and I came to like John Dallington, but the previous adventure was a bit disappointing and I was beginning to worry about the fate of my friend.
Don't get me wrong, my friend has gotten older, and recognizes that. And he has a family, and recognizes the need to be a bit more careful for their benefit. But Charles Lenox is back. The end of the book teases what will happen in the next adventure, and I am very excited to see how the author flushes that out. (I do not want to say too much, for fear of spoiling it for people who have not yet read this adventure.)
On the whole, this was a fun book, with plenty of intrigue, and quite a few major and minor mysteries for the reader, and Charles, to unravel. It was a fun adventure. The only thing that spoiled it for me was the appearance of Queen Victoria. We, at my house, have been watching several documentaries on the Queen, her children and grandchildren, and my already none-too-favorable view of her has only gotten worse. In one of the books my housemate has on her shelves, there is a chapter about Queen Victoria and her son, Bertie (who became King Edward VII), titled, "We Are Not Amused; We Are Abusive" and the documentaries are really reinforcing that view of the Queen. It's colored her in my opinion, so much so that I find contrary characterizations a bit unbelievable. That unfortunately has an impact on my enjoyment of this book.
But I will put those few scenes aside and say that I really did enjoy this adventure, and am really looking forward to Charles' next adventure!
One Bear's Opinion: Four cups of party punch, with a couple of nice jam biscuits
Happy Reading Everyone,
Oliver
Back to books that are old friends. An Old Betrayal is the seventh book in the Charles Lenox series of mysteries. With the other books in the series, each one builds on the next in such a way that it's better to have read them in order and from the beginning, if only to get a feel for the characters. This is a departure from that. I'm not sure if it is a signal that the series is going to take a dramatic turn or what, but it is not necessary to have read the previous books to read this one. The characters are re-introduced so well to readers that it could be mistaken for a first book in the series.
The main mystery was quite interesting and well crafted, but the secondary plot mysteries were even more so. I really felt the sub-plots took pride of place in this visit, and it was not at all unwelcome. Earlier stories had Charles [Lenox] outside the comfort sphere the author had developed for him and were uneven and ragged as to his involvement in the solving of the mystery. I was beginning to be disappointed with the visits of this not-so-very-old friend. And that was really distressing me. I really like Charles Lenox, and I came to like John Dallington, but the previous adventure was a bit disappointing and I was beginning to worry about the fate of my friend.
Don't get me wrong, my friend has gotten older, and recognizes that. And he has a family, and recognizes the need to be a bit more careful for their benefit. But Charles Lenox is back. The end of the book teases what will happen in the next adventure, and I am very excited to see how the author flushes that out. (I do not want to say too much, for fear of spoiling it for people who have not yet read this adventure.)
On the whole, this was a fun book, with plenty of intrigue, and quite a few major and minor mysteries for the reader, and Charles, to unravel. It was a fun adventure. The only thing that spoiled it for me was the appearance of Queen Victoria. We, at my house, have been watching several documentaries on the Queen, her children and grandchildren, and my already none-too-favorable view of her has only gotten worse. In one of the books my housemate has on her shelves, there is a chapter about Queen Victoria and her son, Bertie (who became King Edward VII), titled, "We Are Not Amused; We Are Abusive" and the documentaries are really reinforcing that view of the Queen. It's colored her in my opinion, so much so that I find contrary characterizations a bit unbelievable. That unfortunately has an impact on my enjoyment of this book.
But I will put those few scenes aside and say that I really did enjoy this adventure, and am really looking forward to Charles' next adventure!
One Bear's Opinion: Four cups of party punch, with a couple of nice jam biscuits
Happy Reading Everyone,
Oliver
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)