You searched for loreen - EQ Music Blog https://eqmusicblog.com/ The best pop, electronic and alternative music established 2009. Mon, 19 May 2025 07:00:57 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://eqmusicblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/cropped-EQ-Music-Logo-512px-32x32.jpg You searched for loreen - EQ Music Blog https://eqmusicblog.com/ 32 32 EUROVISION 2025: The Grand Final https://eqmusicblog.com/eurovision-2025-the-grand-final/ Mon, 19 May 2025 07:00:54 +0000 https://eqmusicblog.com/?p=38857 Let's recap Eurovision 2025: The Grand Final. Which entries left an impression on us this year? Find out on the blog...

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The final of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland, was once again a vibrant mix of dance anthems, powerful ballads, and a quirky assortment of novelty pop from across Europe. As we approached the 2025 competition, I found myself without a clear favourite, which was a change from previous years. The final felt like an open playing field, where I sensed the strongest performance of the night would ultimately take home the prize. Thus eclipsing all the pre-event hype and betting odds. No matter how the results played out, I always look forward to sharing my personal highlights from this incredible annual international televised song competition.

“Lighter” by Kyle Alessandro (Norway)

Photo by Thor Håkan Ulstad

What an intense experience for a nineteen-year-old! Kyle Alessandro, representing Norway, stepped onto the stage as the opening act of the ESC grand final—making history as the youngest artist ever to represent the country. His song, “Lighter,” is an electrifying, anthemic electro-pop gem. Though sung with impressive confidence, the track itself lacked distinct originality and memorability. Yet, the extraordinary staging more than compensated for these shortcomings. A solitary flickering flame ignited into a breathtaking display, engulfing the stage in a fiery ring, simulating a wildfire that rapidly spread around Kyle and his talented dancers. This dramatic visual made for a truly spectacular kickoff to the show.

Early performance slots are notoriously tough when it comes to leaving a lasting impact on voters and the audience, and it’s a real disappointment that “Lighter” didn’t receive the recognition it deserved in the voting. Still, Kyle executed his performance with skill and charisma, and I’m genuinely excited to see where his post-Eurovision journey takes him.

“Serving” by Miriana Conte (Malta)

From the very beginning, Maltese artist Miriana Conte made her intentions unmistakably clear: she came to Eurovision to slay! With audacity and flair, she unleashed her cheeky anthem, the irresistibly iconic “Serving“. Throughout the Eurovision journey, this track quickly captured the hearts of fans, emerging as a standout favourite. Miriana’s strategy of pushing boundaries and leaving little to the imagination was almost flawless—until the EBU intervened, insisting on a minor but significant lyric change. But this diva was unshaken. Her boundless charisma teamed with striking visual elements ensured that the essence of “Serving” remained intact. Without a doubt, Miriana has caught the attention of the RuPaul Drag Race fandom. (Possibly part of a grander scheme she envisaged). Miriana for Mighty Hoopla 2026? It’s not just a possibility; it’s a foregone inevitability, I feel!

“Wasted Love” by JJ (Austria)

Photo by Pavla Hartmanová

On sheer vocal mastery alone, the Austrian singer-songwriter JJ (aka Johannes Pietsch) clearly stood out among the Eurovision competitors.

His popopera style is not only powerful but also refreshingly unique. Seamlessly transitioning between pop and opera, JJ makes it appear effortless. His performance of “Wasted Love” was nothing short of breathtaking. The striking contrast and his accomplished falsetto truly take your breath away; it’s a masterclass in vocal excellence. This was only heightened by the dramatic monochrome staging, which added an extra layer of impact. In my view, no one can rival the extraordinary vocal prowess that JJ displays. I found my winner in this performance, and it seems Europe agreed, voting JJ as the champion of Eurovision 2025. Even after the victory was sealed, his winners performance remained astonishing. Deeply emotional, JJ delivered yet another spellbinding show, featuring his mesmerising falsetto. This was definitive proof that Europe made the right choice.

“Hallucination” by Sissal (Denmark)

Denmark truly brought their A-game by sending Sissal to Eurovision in Basel, and I believe she was undeniably the standout female vocalist of the event. It’s utterly perplexing why the Eurovision audience overlooked “Hallucination.” I simply cannot fathom the public’s judgment of this incredible track and performance. The striking similarities to Loreen‘s music were impossible to miss. And you would think that the Eurovision audience would rally behind Sissal’s banger because of that. But for reasons I can’t understand, Europe didn’t embrace the idea of someone delivering such a fantastic homage to Loreen (perhaps they just have a preference for the original). This sentiment was painfully clear in the lack of support for this uplifting pop anthem, as Sissal’s mesmerising performance was shamefully ignored. It’s disheartening to see Eurovision be so harsh to you, Sissal. Just know that EQ Music Blog stands by you. You are an absolute pop queen!

“Survivor” by PARG (Armenia)

This year’s Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland, overflowed with powerful anthems, but none captured attention quite like the Armenian representative, PARG. This remarkable track “Survivor” is a stirring declaration of strength and resilience, seamlessly blending with PARG’s unique pop-rock vocal style. From the very first note, this commanding performance pierced through the dazzling display of vibrant lights and swirling smoke, ensuring PARG remained the centre of attention. It was a mesmerising journey from start to finish, solidifying PARG’s status as a standout contender in this competition. For anyone seeking an artist who embodies the same magnetic charisma as Måneskin’s Damiano David, look no further than PARG—an unforgettable musical force destined for greatness.

This was an absolute blast! Be sure to mark your calendars for the middle of May 2026. Let’s come together again to dive into another exciting Eurovision recap from the Grand Final in Austria next year.

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Listen to “Gravity” by Loreen https://eqmusicblog.com/listen-to-gravity-by-loreen/ Mon, 09 Dec 2024 08:17:03 +0000 https://eqmusicblog.com/?p=37914 The latest track from Loreen, "Gravity," evokes a world where ethereal meets visceral. A heartfelt song about finding beauty in moments of uncertainty

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Two-time Eurovision champion Loreen (Talhaoui) is currently on an inspiring new music journey as she prepares for her highly anticipated tour across Europe and the UK, scheduled for February and March next year. With a remarkable resurgence, she has released three singles so far in 2024, showcasing her creativity and versatility as an artist. Although she isn’t focusing on traditional seasonal songs, Loreen is undeniably tapping into a chill, atmospheric vibe in her latest music, especially evident in her new single “Gravity.”

This track beautifully encapsulates her signature transcendental style of dance music, immersing listeners in a rich soundscape that radiates an otherworldly essence. “Gravity” seemingly evokes vivid imagery of serene, snow-covered landscapes and breathtaking arctic tundras, inviting fans to experience the magic of winter through her sound. Each element of the song harmonizes to create an enchanting experience, drawing you into a world where the ethereal meets the visceral. Be sure to keep an eye out for Loreen’s compelling performances and her unique musical contributions as she captivates audiences everywhere with this latest artistic endeavour.

Listen on Apple Music

Reflecting on the inspiration behind the track, Loreen shares, “Gravity” is about the invisible forces that shape us—the pull of love, the weight of desire, and the quiet voice within that guides us through it all. It’s a song about trust, both in others and in ourselves, and finding beauty even in moments of uncertainty.”

The fusion of raw emotion and ethereal musicality creates an all-encompassing experience that captivates listeners from the very first note. Loreen has not only perfected the art of songwriting but has also mastered the delicate craft of drawing us right into the very essence of her music. Each beat resonates deep within us, while every dynamic shift skillfully transports us through a landscape of sound. Her vocal performance stands out as hauntingly distinctive, infused with a rich timbre that evokes a spectrum of feelings. Furthermore, her thought-provoking lyrics delve into the complexities of the human experience, shining with a mesmerizing darkness that challenges and resonates, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.

Connect with Loreen
Facebook: https://facebook.com/LoreenTalhaoui/
X: https://x.com/LOREEN_TALHAOUI
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loreenofficial/

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EUROVISION 2024: The Grand Final https://eqmusicblog.com/eurovision-2024-the-grand-final/ Mon, 13 May 2024 11:19:27 +0000 https://eqmusicblog.com/?p=36907 Eurovision 2024 presented some earworm tracks, where we can't get them out of our head. Read on to find out which ones we are feeling most...

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The 2024 Eurovision Song Contest is sure to be remembered as evoking strong feelings among participants and viewers alike. Similarly, I feel there was a slight injustice to the acts taking part and their creative artistry and that the work/performances become overshadowed by divisive world politics. Eurovision for me is always about celebrating the artists, their songs and performances. Therefore, my post-coverage of the event is on that basis only. 

In 2003, Swedish pop queen Loreen won the competition in Liverpool (hosting on behalf of Ukraine) with her phenomenal entry “Tattoo.” And that ultimately took Eurovision back to Sweden, for the seventh time with Malmo the host destination for 2024. No expense was spared for Eurovision this year laying on a colourful spectacle of lights, stage performance and most importantly…phenomenal pop songs. As always the night of the Grand Final presented some earworm tracks of the like where I can’t get them out of my head. The remedy to this earworm invasion is blogging them right here.

“Unforgettable” by Marcus & Martinus (Sweden)

As you would expect, Sweden knew the assignment when it came submitting a memorable, catchy track. “Unforgettable” performed by twins Marcus & Martinus Gunnarsen, is a very typical entry for Sweden. A profusely upbeat, electro-pop track replete with an instant sing-along chorus.

Performance-wise the Swedish team laid on a light effects spectacle based on a Matrix-like theme. In all honesty, if the track wasn’t already dazzling enough, the use of copious LED lights most certainly was made the overall performance blazingly brilliant.


“Luktelk” by Silvester Belt (Lithuania)

Lithuania sent their first LGBTQ+ artist to Eurovision this year. The country’s hopes were with Silvester Belt and his Latvian-spoken entry “Luktelk” (translated, “Wait“). This is a banger that the crowd had no hesitation in getting behind. They joined in clapping to the track’s punchy rhythmic beat. Looks wise, Silvester shares a noticeable resemblance to Troye Sivan. The stage performance was flanked by four hooded dancers with Silvester holding his own with the dynamic offering. “Luktelk” deserved a higher final placing than 14th in the competition. However, the song is a suitable introduction to his brand of electronic pop and the tracks he is currently working on. A definite, one-to-watch for me. 

“Liar” by Silia Kapsis (Cyprus)

Australia didn’t make it through the semi-final heat process this year. The country was however, not entirely left out of the Grand Final proceedings. Seventeen-year-old Silia Kapsis, the youngest participant in the contest and of Greek-Cypriot and Australian descent, represented Cyprus with the ebullient offering “Liar.” On the grand final night it was good to witness Silia prove the critics wrong as there had been some opinions that she was too young to take on the task of competing. However, Silia’s supremely confident performance. Her nailed Britney-esque dance routine was outstanding leaving the ill-founded critics left eating their words. 

“Rim Tim Tagi Dim” by Baby Lasagna (Croatia)

Baby Lasagna, the Croatian entrant, has cast a spell over me for weeks with the arresting pop-rock of “Rim Tim Tagi Dim.” The massively hypnotic track had a way of sneaking up on me when I least expected it. Too many times, I found myself spontaneously humming or drumming out the tracks pounding rhythm on my coffee table. (Incidentally, of which has taken some battering from my tapping fingers these past few weeks).

In contrast to most Eurovision entries this year, Baby Lasagna penned “Rim Tim Tagi Dim” all by himself. Although the lyrics might appear somewhat rudimentary – “I’m a big boy now, I’m going away and I’ve sold my cow“, there is a sense of poignancy behind the narrative. The track is inspired by his fellow Balkan friends, of which fled the country in search of a better life. So, there’s no air of silliness at all in this song, except for the surprising yet memorable name choice – Baby Lasagna.

“Doomsday Blue” by Bambie Thug (Ireland)

Realising they needed to make their presence felt this year, Ireland chose the divisive, goth witch Bambie Thug as their representative. Having missed out on snatching a grand final place for quite a few years, Ireland played the wild card with the dynamic “Doomsday Blue” being well received. Screamo, grunge, spell-casting, and a soft, endearing singing voice, “Doomsday Blue” has it all going on. An insane, hedonistic brew for sure if you get my point! The staging of this one was a thing of dramatic wonderment and epic proportions. Notably, though, like Lordi and Verka Serduchka. Bambie Thug is Eurovision royalty now and will be remembered for years to come.

“We Will Rave” by Kaleen (Austria)

No Eurovision grand final is complete without a potent dance banger and 2024 was no exception. Following in the recent footsteps of “Fuego” by Eleni Foureira and “Replay” by Tamta, Austria’s Kaleen stepped up to the table with the infectious, trance offering “We Will Rave.” The incredibly catchy song bears a striking musical resemblance to Snap!Rhythm Is A Dancer,” owing to the song’s fast-paced energy. Sometimes it is good to have a track that is just for the purpose of pure enjoyment. What “We Will Rave” offers is an escape that moreover, shimmers with extreme danceability and catchiness.

The Code by Nemo (Switzerland)

I am happy about Switzerland’s landslide victory at Eurovision this year and felt it was their time to pick up the winner’s trophy again. As In recent years Swiss representatives Luca Hänni and Gjon’s Tears both paved the way putting Switzerland back on the Eurovision map with their respective entries “She Got Me,” and “Tout L’univers.” However, this year Swiss participant Nemo brought something completely different in both aesthetics and sound. I feel “The Code” was well received because its authentic lyrics got people invested in it. As Nemo themselves said it’s a song about their story, about coming out as a non-binary individual and finding paradise in that honesty.

Not forgetting the compelling stage performance Nemo gave, singing from the heart while balancing and jumping on and off a tilted spinning disc. The stunt could have ended in disaster, but thankfully I observed no slip-ups (except when he won and broke their thumb and the Eurovision trophy). I think they must have had some magnets in their trainers to help them stay rooted to the spot. Everyone loves a story with a happy outcome, and ultimately “The Code” is now an anthemic beacon of light, instantly taken to the hearts of the LGBTQ+ community and discerning pop music fans alike.

Lastly, I cannot rightfully conclude my Eurovision 2024 sum up without mentioning the reuniting of Alcazar and their stunning performance of the mega-hit “Crying At The Discoteque.” Eurovision is affectionately known as Gay Christmas and with Alcazar and the ABBAtars also making an appearance, the Swedes gave us Christmas in pop music their way. 

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Listen to “Oblivion” by Margaret Berger https://eqmusicblog.com/listen-to-oblivion-by-margaret-berger/ Mon, 08 Jan 2024 11:13:34 +0000 https://eqmusicblog.com/?p=35788 Eurovision preliminary heats are upon us. Among the early contenders, for Norway electrifying track "Oblivion" by Margaret Berger stands out.

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Margaret Berger is an exceptionally talented electro-pop artist from Norway. Although, despite her success at Eurovision 2013, (where she came 4th with entry “I Feed You My Love“). Astonishingly, she appeared just once on EQ Music Blog, which is somewhat unforgiveable considering her stature. However, Margaret is back in the spotlight, thanks to her participation in the Melodi Grand Prix selection process for this year’s competition in Malmo Sweden. Her latest single “Oblivion” has already garnered a significant response. If you haven’t given her music a listen before, now is the perfect time to do so. Margaret’s unique sound is sure to captivate you and leave you wanting more.

It’s intriguing to ponder whether the Norwegians perceive Margaret’s involvement in the Melodi Grand Prix selection process in the same manner as the Swedes did with Scandipop queen Loreen‘s return last year. One could speculate that they are hoping for a victory that follows a similar formula to Loreen’s success. However, with KEiiNO also in the running with another supremely catchy offering in “Damdiggida“, the outcome is uncertain. Only time will reveal whether Margaret’s impressive track record and electrifying new song “Oblivion” will place her in the winner’s circle.

Listen on Apple Music

It’s early that I get swept up in the Eurovision excitement! What has me enthused about the track “Oblivion” in particular, is that it’s written by an incredible team of songwriters. An ensemble of songwriting minds that Includes Moyka – one of the most talented Norwegian electronic-pop acts around – alongside Anders Kjaer and Sivert Hagtvet Hjeltenes. With that kind of talent behind it. This is definitely one preliminary Eurovision entry you won’t want to miss!

Are you curious to find out if Margaret will represent Norway at Eurovision 2024? Don’t miss out on the action! The heats in the national final process start on Saturday 13th of January, with Margaret performing in semi-final one. You can join in with the excitement by watching the official NRK TV streaming link HERE from 21:00 CET.

Connect with Margaret Berger
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/margaretbergerofficial/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/margaretberger
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretbergerofficial/

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Stream It! “This Beat Is Poptronik” Playlist – June 2023 https://eqmusicblog.com/stream-it-this-beat-is-poptronik-playlist-june-2023/ Tue, 13 Jun 2023 08:19:57 +0000 https://eqmusicblog.com/?p=34630 New out - This Beat Is Poptronik playlist June 2023 includes standout pop, electro & indie-pop from Kylie, Loreen, Jake Shears & more...

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Tick tock, tick tock, buzz, buzz, our alarm just went off… Is it already time to update the “This Beat Is Poptronik” playlist again? It feels like only yesterday we were adding new tracks to the March update. But, as always, we’ve got you covered with the latest and greatest pop hits. We appreciate you’re all busy bees and understand if a killer track or two may have escaped your ears. Therefore, we’ve curated this playlist just for you. With “This Beat Is Poptronik playlist – June 2023,” you’ll never miss a beat. It’s the perfect playlist to download and jam out to on-the-go. So turn up the volume and tune out the rest of the world. Are you ready? Let’s go!

June 2023 features…

There are no prizes for guessing what track has “Padam Padam“(ed) on its way to the opening slot of the June playlist. Needless to say, the one and only Aussie pop Princess Kylie Minogue takes up residence at the top spot in what is her first appearance of three features in this update. You can also catch her amazing vocals on “Voices” with Jake Shears and “10 out of 10” with Oliver Heldens.

Also of note and steaming its way into the playlist is the seismic collaboration of Sam Smith and Madonna, they really go all in on their statement pop piece “Vulgar.” An especially fitting anthem for those who celebrate their individuality through self-expression.

Following her victory at Eurovision, Loreen has more than earned her spot on the place playlist with the wholly captivating winning song “Tattoo.”

Whatever you do, you should not miss these gems from Alison Goldfrapp, Georgia, Bright Light Bright Light, Tia Kofi, MUNA, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Romy.

Some emerging artists for your radar: 

I’ve been following Rose Gray‘s career for a while now, and her recent track “Ecstasy” really caught my attention. Her music has always been great, but this new release just has that extra something special that makes it stand out. And now with “Happiness,” she’s done it again – combining dancefloor-friendly beats with pop sensibility to create a track that’s impossible not to love.

Lunar June treads a path of sonic bliss with her dreamy electronic pop reawakening. The debut EP, “jaded/faded,” is evidence of Lunar’s prodigious talent and great potential. Further, affirming that the music she is currently making has much to enthral.

It is rare for a newcomer to hold nothing back. And ALF clearly knows what he wants to convey in his songs. There is a great deal of lyrical bite embodied in lines like “Letting you just rip me apart to fill my heart’s void, You’re killing me.” In terms of music, this track packs a notable punch. Yet, the vocals are suitably endearing. Undoubtedly he comes into his element when song-writing. In any event, I fully expect ALF to gain momentum.

Gabi Goldman is a talented musician with an absolutely magnetic voice. Her debut track, “Body Heat,” is a shimmering masterpiece that will inevitably catch the attention of anyone who loves lush, gorgeous pop music with meaningful lyrics. 

Feel free to explore “This Beat Is Poptronik playlist June 2023” at your own pace. You never know, you may just stumble upon your new favourite track or artist! If you enjoy the poptronik playlist, why not tell your friends about it? It would mean the world to us if you could nudge them in the direction of subscribing too. We love sharing our music taste with you and can’t wait to bring you more “This Beat Is Poptronik” news and an updated playlist soon. Stay tuned!…

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Eurovision 2023: The Grand Final https://eqmusicblog.com/eurovision-2023-the-grand-final/ Mon, 15 May 2023 09:45:19 +0000 https://eqmusicblog.com/?p=34468 A closer look at Eurovision 2023. Watching the Eurovision final, I couldn't help but notice a few overlooked gems from the night...

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Hey there! I am sure that some of our readers might be curious about the Eurovision coverage on the blog this year. Particularly when the event was hosted in Liverpool, UK, on behalf of Ukraine, the 2022 ESC winners. I must confess, I couldn’t resist catching the Eurovision fever that had swept the nation in the weeks leading up to the semis and final of the competition. Honestly, it was exciting to quietly soak up every bit of the extensive media coverage from my homeland for once. I mean, it’s been 25 years since we’ve had a chance to host, so why not savour it, right?

My focus for blog coverage is instead on the grand final itself. As in all realness, with Loreen as Sweden’s representative, it seemed like a foregone conclusion that she would win anyways. The lead-up to the final generated hype around a few frontrunners. Some songs, unfortunately, didn’t receive the attention they deserved. As a Eurovision fan, I couldn’t help but notice a few overlooked gems from the night.

Let’s recap and take a look at some other highlights of Eurovision 2023. These picks are based on outstanding vocals, as I see them in the 2023 competition.

“Break A Broken Heart” by Andrew Lambrou (Cyprus)

I was a slightly disappointed that the Cyprus entry “Break A Broken Heart” by Andrew Lambrou was drawn third on the show line-up. Even though the Australian singer chosen to represent Cyprus gave a stunning performance. The goosebump-raising ballad was forgotten, with everyone eagerly anticipating the battle between Sweden and Finland. Personally, I really enjoyed Andrew’s powerful vocal range and stellar performance. I would have liked to see Cyprus earn more points. The runs into the falsetto notes gave me chills!

“Watergun” by Remo Forrer (Switzerland)

What a travesty that “Watergun,” the moving song sung by Remo Forrer for Switzerland, didn’t score higher on Saturday. Despite his young age, the 21-year-old singer delivered an utterly powerful performance that showcased his distinctive deep soulful vocals. The song lyrics were especially poignant in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Unfortunately, however, some of the comments I witnessed circulating online made it seem like the song’s true meaning had been lost in translation. To make matters worse, Switzerland was also placed near the Cyprus entry, another ballad, making it even harder for them to stand out.

“Because of You” by Gustaph (Belgium)

Belgium, one hundred per cent understood the assignment with their track “Because of You” by Gustaph. It was amazing seeing them go all out with the disco vibes. Watching from home, I certainly, had the sense that the energy the track created in the arena felt incredible. I loved the song’s message of empowerment and inclusivity, and Gustaph’s performance was just fantastic. The staging was super cool also, with the black and white visuals contrasting against Gustaph’s pink outfit. It was clear that he was so grateful to be a part of the Eurovision experience, and I’m glad he got this moment in the spotlight. I think he deserves recognition as an iconic Eurovision performance for sure.

“Due Vite” by Marco Mengoni (Italy)

(Photo by Andrea Bianchera)

Going into the competition final, I wasn’t familiar with the Italian entry “Due Vite” by Marco Mengoni. However, when he began to sing, I soon realized what I had missed out on. Marco’s performance was incredibly moving, and the way he carried his vocals was noticeably spine-tingling. Using light and shade, he expertly created flawless vocals that seemingly spoke directly to the audience. It was almost as if he had read the room and knew just what the arena needed at that moment. The music was a masterclass, with shimmering synths that I never expected. Overall, it was clear that Marco’s talent and passion won over the hearts of the Eurovision crowd. His performance was simply in a class of its own.

“Tattoo” by Loreen (Sweden)

(Photo by Geoff Spicer)

No Eurovision round-up is complete this year without a few words about the winning song, in this instance, “Tattoo” by Loreen. Having already won the competition in 2012 with “Euphoria,” she is now regarded as a legend in this arena. It’s fair to say that there was no higher level for her to reach, but she still managed to bring Sweden’s strongest entry in the last few years to the competition this year. The build in “Tattoo” was simply amazing, and while, there were a few other strong contenders, namely Alessandra and Noa Kirel, Loreen’s powerful vocals ultimately clinched the victory for her. She brought softness and drama to her performance, and it’s no wonder she took home the winner’s trophy for Sweden.

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Watch “I Will Never Not Have Had You” by Vanbot https://eqmusicblog.com/watch-i-will-never-not-have-had-you-by-vanbot/ Mon, 03 Apr 2023 10:15:12 +0000 https://eqmusicblog.com/?p=33837 With "I Will Never Not Have Had You," Vanbot pays homage to teen feelings with a serene arrangement of dreamy synths and widescreen pop.

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In case you have not heard, Vanbot is back with new music and an upcoming album, which is exciting news for me. It was quite a break for Ester Ideskog, six years in fact since she unleashed her third album “Siberia”. During this time, she’s become a new mum. Written and scrapped an album. She has also taken on a mentoring role carrying out online workshops for an electronic music school known as teenage engineering

Presumably, the same as most music artists during the pandemic is where Vanbot picked up the synths and started writing “How Could I Prepare For This,” the fourth album. I am particularly delighted at this comeback. Given this fact, it feels splendid to hear some Swedish synth-pop. Especially so nowadays, since much of the new Swedish music is pop-based and not predominantly electronic. Maybe she also noticed this decline of Swedish synth-pop and decided to bridge the gap by returning to her original musical stylings for the track “I Will Never Not Have Had You“.

Listen on Apple Music

Despite the breakaway, Vanbot returns to the dreamy soundscapes and widescreen sonic palate of her early endeavours. As much as I am basking in the blissful sonic arrangement of the track. Foremost I noted in a stylistic sense it is unabashedly reminiscent of The Sound of Arrows. As a result, I had to check the song credits since I was somewhat anticipating seeing that Stefan Storm had contributed to it. (He did not assist with the making of the track). It is a collaboration between Ester and Samuel Starck (Loreen and September).

Discussing the track, Ester shares…

I Will Never Not have Had You” is a flashback story from when I was young and impossibly in love. It’s a homage to those big teenager feelings”.

Similarly, the Sune Chee directed-music video closely reflects the lyrical narrative. Evoking the carefree adventures and teenager awakening moments.

The new single “I Will Never Not Have Had You” and the video epitomises the Vanbot style. Her comeback is a triumphant one in every sense.

The album “How Could I Prepare For This” is out May 5th via Vanbot’s label Lisch Recordings

Connect with Vanbot
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vanbotmusic
Twitter: https://twitter.com/vanbotmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanbotmusic

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Eurovision 2019: Watch “Spirit In The Sky” by KEiiNO https://eqmusicblog.com/eurovision-2019-watch-spirit-sky-keiino/ Thu, 09 May 2019 08:17:00 +0000 https://eqmusicblog.com/?p=26551 With a few epic ballads & dramatic songs, in Eurovision, this year, no-one can deny "Spirit In The Sky" from KEiiNO is the pop banger which lifts a mood.

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There was a good reason I put the pause button on and broke away from writing up my round-up of participants to look out for during the Eurovision semi-final 2, heat (to be televised 16th, May.) The songs which have got me feeling some big kind of way. That I am excited by them. There are a few songs in this heat of which the Norwegian entry “Spirit In The Sky” performed by KEiiNO is one, where I feel that some added magic has been sprinkled over them.

I am confident the Eurovision audience will instantly warm to KEiiNO’s entry. We only have to look as far as previous Scandi winners Loreen with “Euphoria” and Denmark’s Emmelie Deforest “Teardrops” to know that Europe appreciates the electronic and folk-pop elements combined. “Spirit In The Sky” brings the best of worlds and Fred of the group introduces Sami chants into our lives as well. My first impression of the song was that it felt gimmicky, but equally as much I loved everything about Alexandra’s beautiful vocal.

By an act of small coincidence last year KEiiNO vocalist Tom Hugo wrote and performed the official Pride single in Norway “Family” (I wrote about it here.) He was also a finalist at Norway’s Eurovision national selection competition in 2018 with the song “I Like, I Like, I Like.“ This year he is one-third of KEiiNO and gets to wear a curious wig in the music video. I bet a year ago, he didn’t expect to be dressed up this way, but that’s how strange the music business is Tom! With quite a few epic ballads and dramatic entries, this year no-one can deny “Spirit In The Sky” and similarly with Luca Hänni’s “She Got Me” they are complete mood lifters. In crafting a pop banger though, KEiiNO has got the edge.

Connect with KEiiNO

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/keiinomusic/

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EQTV: Watch “Family” by Straight Up! https://eqmusicblog.com/eqtv-watch-family-by-straight-up/ Mon, 11 Jun 2012 17:35:04 +0000 http://wordpress-98520-280723.cloudwaysapps.com/eqtv-watch-family-by-straight-up/   By Mandy Rogers Swedish duo Straight Up! bid a return to the euro pop stage following last years success in scoring selection as the Official Stockholm Pride Anthem with their pop dazzling ditty “Show The World Tonight”. There must be something fluorescent flowing through the Swedish waters at the moment, as following in the […]

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Straightup 

By Mandy Rogers

Swedish duo Straight Up! bid a return to the euro pop stage following last years success in scoring selection as the Official Stockholm Pride Anthem with their pop dazzling ditty “Show The World Tonight”.

There must be something fluorescent flowing through the Swedish waters at the moment, as following in the footsteps of Loreen, Straight Up! are belting out some disco tinged euphoria on new single “Family” which to my ear has also seeped in some 80’s not to be forgotten sparkle, sounding rather alá the Cutting Crew & Laura Branigan tasty.

A glitterfest of shimmering synth sound that’s neon dipped and ready for the summer,  bringing instant rays happiness of it’s own making, even if the sun doesn’t make an appearance.

As the Straight Up! boy’s have thrown all the neon glow into the song, on the video they are turning the monochrome mode on, in stylish, sleek and footwork fancy.

Family - Single - Straight Up!

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Listen To: “Get Outta My House” by Velvet Code https://eqmusicblog.com/listen-to-get-outta-my-house-by-velvet-code/ Mon, 04 Jun 2012 09:23:34 +0000 http://wordpress-98520-280723.cloudwaysapps.com/listen-to-get-outta-my-house-by-velvet-code/ By Mandy Rogers  /  Photo: Pepa Niebla Hitting loud and proud and by his own admission, all out bitchy! Canadian DJ and producer Velvet Code is ready to pep up the summer with a wham, bam of electro house bite. The electro popping fierce Canadian’s message is; “Be a free bitch”. What a “free bitch” […]

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Velvet Code

By Mandy Rogers  /  Photo: Pepa Niebla

Hitting loud and proud and by his own admission, all out bitchy!

Canadian DJ and producer Velvet Code is ready to pep up the summer with a wham, bam of electro house bite.

The electro popping fierce Canadian’s message is; “Be a free bitch”. What a “free bitch” means to me is to be who we want to be, live how we want to live, with no apologies and excuses

Bolstering up that statement Velvet Code is gearing up to deliver a juggernaut of stomping house power and electro vivacity in new single release “Get Outta My House”. The track is rammed with hot electro juice and aside Velvet Codes rumbling house styled vocals he springs some spice into the tumbling drum beaten rhythm as he hits the bridge and delivers the male equivalent of a Luciana fiery outburst, which for me are my most favourite sections of the track. RAW!

 

By way of an appetiser and familiariser to the Velvet Code sound, until “Get Outta My Way” drops, Velvet Code is offering a previously unreleased track for FREE DOWNLOAD entitled “This Is Not Pretend” it’s rather a bobby dazzling number of dark dancability and creditability that has been co-written and produced by Peter Bostrom the producer / songwriter behind this year’s Eurovision winning song “Euphoria” by Loreen.

Pick up the FREE DOWNLOAD of “This Is Not Pretend” via Velvet Code's Facebook

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