I have a lot of catching up to do if I’m going to review all of the entries before the finals on May 22. These two songs I’m about to review couldn’t be any more different in terms of emotional depth. Natalia Gordienko has returned with a completely different song from last year, “Sugar” (I think this song suits her better). Meanwhile, Roxen puts away the alcohol and reminds us of self love in “Amnesia.”
Roxen has got the voice, the lyrics, and a delightful accent.
If you ask me, Roxen stands a really good chance of winning this competition. From all of the entries I’ve heard so far, she is one of the only competitors who demonstrates a strength in her lyrics rather than her performance.
Oh I lost myself tryna have it all
Self love amnesia, don’t worry if it got ya
Cuz you’re not alone, not alone
I tried to fight it but it’s getting strong, getting strong
In this year’s entry, her lyrics reflect the struggle to see one’s own worth when trying to find success. A relatable sentiment, much more relatable than a bitter breakup like “Alcohol You.” I liked that song too, but this one hits me in the gut personally. Although her lyrics are the star of this song, I really enjoy the change in rhythm in the bridge. It seems to reflect someone chasing after their elusive self love.
When Natalia Gordienko wants sugar, everything is cake.
I think this is the first time I’ve encountered a song where the verses are stronger than the chorus. The first verse slowly builds, “a tingle then it turned into a burn” like in the lyrics. And then the dance break happens. The instrumentation is underwhelming to the point of breaking the momentum of the song. To me, this part sounded uninspired. It also doesn’t help that the lyrics to the chorus are simply: “Come over… oh lover… give me some sugar.” And then the dance break plays again.
I was even more disappointed when the second verse played because it was so satisfying. The texture of the song thins back down again, but this time, we get the bass line and a subtle beat. I really like when a song’s second verse varies from the first. It gives you the feeling that you’re listening to something new, even if the change was subtle. It’s a shame that the chorus doesn’t give me the same excitement as in the verses.
Who has my vote (for now)?
What sets these two songs apart is the depth of their emotions. I don’t have a thing against sexy dance songs, but I almost always prefer to listen to a song that offers inspiring affirmations. I can confidently say that I would vote for Roxen at the Eurovision Song Contest but I wish both Romania and Moldova the best of luck!