I’ve been looking forward to this article. Two artists who I haven’t heard from in years decided to drop new music this year. Coincidence? Or was I in the right place at the right time? Let’s check out these songs: “Can’t Do This” by Anja (Denmark), “Kupalinka” by Naviband (Belarus), “Home Alone” by Jana Burčeska (North Macedonia), “Have You Ever?” by Isaiah (Australia), and “Jealous” by Lindita (Albania).
Anja – Can’t Do This
“Where I Am” was my favourite song from Eurovision 2017, so technically Anja should have been in my last article. Better late than never, I guess? Anyway, “Can’t Do This” is a pleasant song to listen to. Not flashy like a power ballad but just as enjoyable. I’ll be honest though, the way she stresses the word “something” in the first verse irks me a little. Definitely will check out the rest of her recent EP.
Worth a revisit: YES
Naviband – Kupalinka
I did not have “techno-folk song” on my bingo card for Naviband, but I still haven’t gotten sick of folk songs with a modern twist. After doing some research, I discovered that “Kupalinka” is a Belarusian folk song that has recently been used in protests. Considering Naviband’s outspoken disdain for the war against Ukraine, it’s likely that this song choice was intentional. In regards to the musical aspect, this song is a lot of fun to listen to. I love the EDM production, from the drop to the music box section.
Worth a revisit: YES
Jana Burčeska – Home Alone
Jana Burčeska’s return was the most surprising to me. She virtually hasn’t released anything since “Dance Alone.” Ironically, her new song is about her fear of being alone. I don’t think I’ve ever heard a song where someone is paranoid about a potential home invasion. What makes this song even more unsettling is that it’s set to a chill R&B instrumental. Her voice suits this genre well. I don’t see myself coming back to this song, but I am curious to see where Jana Burčeska takes her music in the future.
Worth a revisit: (soft) NO
Isaiah – Have You Ever?
Isaiah’s voice is beautiful as always. He also chose to go full R&B with his song “Have You Ever?” Musically, I don’t find anything wrong with this song. However, the lyrics were a bit too predictable and made the song less enjoyable. I found myself anticipating every rhyme and each time I felt the wind leaving my sails. If I didn’t care so much about lyrics, I could enjoy this song, but alas.
Worth a revisit: NO
Lindita – Jealous
I said this already with Alma’s song “Tatted In My Memory” and I’ll say it again: this chill hiphop vibe is not really my thing. Frankly, I don’t think Lindita’s voice suits this song the way “World” did. It sounds exactly like something Ariana Grande would sing but not in a good way. And I don’t mean any offense towards Lindita. In fact, I really liked all of the stacked harmonies in “Jealous.” Despite me not liking this genre too much, if this is the type of music she likes making, I can’t be upset with her. However, I think her personal colour could shine through more in her music.
Worth a revisit: NO