Hello, Eurovision fans! Today I am officially kicking off Eurovision 2023 with Joker Out (Slovenia), Vesna (Czechia), Monika Linkytė (Lithuania), La Zarra (France), Voyager (Australia), Mia Nicolai and Dion Cooper (Netherlands), and Remo Forrer (Switzerland). That’s right! A whopping seven songs reviewed in one article! Talk about bang for your buck.
Lyrics: We ain’t playin’ now
What Eurovision Song Contest isn’t complete without deep, insightful lyrics? I’m quite surprised about the subject matter of “Watergun” by Remo Forrer. That line about the body bags is really heavy. Still, the imagery of trading a watergun with a real gun is powerful. Another standout this round is “My Sister’s Crown” by Vesna. Solidarity between women and a hype beat is sure to move the crowd during the competition. Also, it’s a nice touch to include four languages to further back up that solidarity. The lyrics from “Carpe Diem” by Joker Out also got me thinking. As the title suggests, the lyrics are about making the most of life despite how monotonous it can get. I’d also like to give props to Slovenia for sending a band for a second year even though they didn’t do too well last time. I still think “Disko” deserved better.
Music: Speaking of disco…
I was sold the moment the beat kicked in during “Évidemment” by La Zarra. I can see her scoring big points in the finals, especially with those bittersweet lyrics. The translation on the official video doesn’t do the song justice. One song with a more bombastic display of instrumentals is “Promise” by Voyager. They give me Intelligent Music Project vibes, so I’m optimistic about their live performance. I also enjoy that splash of metal in the middle. However, the generic lyrics might be the song’s downfall. “Burning Daylight” by Mia Nicolai and Dion Cooper stands out to me, not for its instrumental, but for the cadence of the pre-chorus. I love when lines in songs have fun rhythms. Even though I really like this song, I am a little disappointed that it kinda just ends with “goodbye old life.” It almost feels too abrupt.
Vocals: Finally my heart is beating
“Stay” by Monika Linkytė was the first Eurovision entry I listened to, right when I was getting burnt out over writing articles. I mean, that feeling persists all year, but I usually don’t miss Eurovision season. I’m ashamed to admit that I genuinely considered taking a back seat and waiting until May to watch the show. This song really snapped me out of my funk. The chanting drives the rhythm and the power behind Monika Linkytė’s voice make this entry an easy favourite.
Check out all of the entries reviewed here: