REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: UNITED KINGDOM!

It's the last in the series... did we save the best to last? ;-) Electro Velvet were internally chosen to represent the UK back in March and I think it's fair to say they received a mixed reaction. But their song is uptempo, fun and different. Isn't it? Will the UK do surprisingly well?

Ana: “Different” and “Risky” are the correct words to describe this entry. I can see it in the top 10 but I can also see it in the bottom. Maybe, I miss a well defined and catchy chorus and a more amazing final. The only one sure thing about UK’s entry is that the result is totally unpredictable. 5/10

Ilkar: Like Israel this song has improved a lot after further listening after the initial ”oh, no!” reaction. Yet I think his vocals are very flat and she's a bit annoying but who knows how they will perform live. Maybe this is just an act. The video works, and the playing with their roles but how it will come across live? Time will tell. All in all this song could have been in Valentina Monetta's album (they have even borrowed her ball lamp!), only that she would have sung it better. This can go either way, among the last or surprisingly doing better than any UK entry for years. But then, it will be heard only once.... 7.5/10

Jack: Meh. I appreciate the effort her (going for something fresh, something that will stand out) but the song just isn't doing it for me. I can't hide by disappointment with the British entry. Although I was lucky enough to see them perform it live and they were pretty good. Bianca is defiantly better than Alex imo. Also when they perform, the chemistry isn't there. Some people seem to think they can win.. I personally think that's delusional. I'll be happy if the UK doesn't finish 27th. 3/10

Jess: At first I was a little shocked because I wasn't expecting to see a song like this represent the UK, however around 20 seconds in I really started to like the song. And I have been in love with it ever since! 7/10

John: Strictly in the mould of 1920's swing, the song makes an attempt to modernise the sounds from that era and bring them into the 21st. century.Sadly it doesn't work and the whole exercise amounts to an effort that singularly lacks originality and quickly becomes tiresome. 4/10 

OUR VERDICT - 26.5/50

OVERALL SCORE - 5.3/10

Photograph from Electric Velvet's Facebook page. 

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: SPAIN!

Edurne will be hoping to bring Spain its first victory since 1969. Is it possible? Here's what we think..

Ana: I love the strength of this song, the ethical elements, the instrumental parts and the “IeIeeo” of the chorus. It sounds like a battle cry. I think that with a very visual and powerful staging Edurne could easily reach a good position. 9/10

Ilkar: What to say? The lack of originality is outstanding in this one. It's like a leftover from Loreen's debut album, the video is like a kitchy nightmare. The only thing that saves this it's in Spanish. I'm terrified even to think what their staging in Vienna will be.... 3.5/10

Jack: Spain is my favourite country in Eurovision. I've loved almost all of their entries and this year is no exception. I can't wait to see it live - we already know Giuseppe Di Bella will dance topless..Why ay ay ay did TVE have to shop abroad for the song though? That's my only problemo here. Surely Spain has enough decent songwriters. I don't know... anyway, I do adore Edurne and hope she will achieve top ten. One of my favourites. Buena surte! :-) 9/10

Jess: Edurne has a brilliant voice, and Amanecer really helps to show that! I believe this could be one to watch on the night! 9/10

John: This song has really grown on me with repeated listening. Ranking up there with the likes of Quedate Conmigo, I expect that this very strong entry from Spain will figure high up in the final mix at this years contest. 8/10

OUR VERDICT - 38.5/50
OVERALL SCORE - 7.7/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: ITALY!

Il Volo are an operatic pop trio consisting of tenors Piero Barone and Ignazio Boschetto, and baritone Gianluca Ginoble. They're among the favourites to win Eurovision with both the bookies and the fans. But is it just hype? Will this type of music really appeal to the masses? Here are our thoughts...

Ana: I’ll start saying that these three boys have amazing voices but I don’t like “Popopera”, I don’t like the song, I don’t like their performance and I don’t like the fact that they're young boys singing old men songs. Maybe I’d like them if we were in 2005 and they were older but nowadays this is so dated! I’d be very disappointed if they won. 4/10

Ilkar: This is what Eurovision is all about: a country represented by a song that represents its musical culture and heritage and identifies as such with first seconds, sung in its own language and being a megahit in its own market. This should win in Vienna for these merits only and bring some sense back to this competitions where countries are represented by singers from one country, writers from another, producers from third and sung in a language other than people of the country speak. Don't the broadcasters have any national pride left?! Popopera genre is sung all over the world but no one does it better than Italians themselves (step back Il Divo, Il Volo is here now) and this song is perfection in its own genre. I fell in love with it with the first hearing. 10/10

Jack: Italy never disappoints. Since their grand return in 2011, they have continually sent awesome songs. Il Volo are great and I do think they're going to win. Even though Grande Amore isn't my personal favourtie, I do still really like it. They would be worthy winners for sure. Of course there's a chance it will fail on the night and do a France 2011 but I somehow don't think that'll happen with these guys. Rome 2016? 8.5/10

Jess: From the moment I heard Grande Amore I fell in love with it! Il Volo have such incredible voices and the song is just so amazing! 9/10

John: This I reckon will garner a lot of favour with worldwide audiences. A ballad that is much closer to popular than to "popera" , it consolidates Italy's reputation as a country to watch out for at Eurovision. It could well do the business in my view. 9/10

OUR VERDICT - 40.5/50

OVERALL SCORE - 8.1/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: GERMANY!

We all remember watching the German national final. The winner, Andreas Kümmert, said danke aber nein danke to Eurovision and therefore the runner up is going to Eurovision. Ann Sophie also won the newbies category prior to the national final, as did Elaiza last year. Here's what we think about the German entry...

Ana: It’s a nice and modern song but what I like the most of this entry is Ann Sophie’s attitude which reminds me of Lena (Germany 2010 and 2011). She loves the camera and the camera loves her. Germany goes straight to the final and I think that they can do well even though this isn't a winner song. 8/10

Ilkar: The way she got to Eurovision is weird, and it's weird how much she reminds me of Lena. Maybe she's Lena's auntie, what do I know? The song is pleasant and catchy, and she does perform it with gusto. But the final spark is maybe missing.... 6/10

Jack: Black Smoke is one of my favourites this year. Even though Ann Sophie said she doesn't like being compared to Lena, you can't deny the simulates between the two. I hope the Germans do well in Vienna - but I have no idea where she will place.... There's potential. 7.5/10

Jess: Ann Sophie has such a brilliant voice, and Black Smoke is such a great song! 7/10

John: The affectation in Ann's voice is quite irritating - but the same could be said of about 35 of the other singers in this year's ESC line-up. In all other respects, the song is rather infectious (you might just find yourself humming it unintentionally!). The memorable tune and the rather energetic performance - might well stand in favour of the German entry.  7/10

OUR VERDICT - 35.5/50
OVERALL SCORE - 7.1/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: FRANCE!

TWIN TWIN (Oh yeah!) finished in last place in Copenhagen so the French will naturally be hoping to do a bit better this year. Will Lisa's Chanson see France achieve a respectable position? Or are the French stuck in the past? Here's what we think about France's effort...

Ana: This song has grown on me since I listened to her singing it live but not enough to say that I like it. It’s not a bad song and her vocals are perfect but it’s very boring and forgettable. I think that only a little part of the audience will like it enough to vote for it. 3/10

Ilkar: Oldfashioned? Yes. But therefore also very refreshing and welcome. She sings well, she knows her role and the song is one of those real songs not composed by a computer programme. With added message. This needs no gimmick. All we need is Lisa on stage flawlessly belting out her song. 8.5/10

Jack: When Lisa was selected with this song, I did feel a tad underwhelmed as I know France can do better than this. Why couldn't they send TAL, Indila, Kendji Girac, Shy'm or someone like that? I guess France has the same problem as the UK though. Big names just aren't interested in Eurovision... anyway, it's not a bad song. Maybe a little bit boring but she does perform it brilliantly! And her voice is flawless live! I don't think France will reach the top ten in Vienna but she could do well. Maybe. Juries will like it but the spark just isn't there for me! 5/10

Jess: Lisa has a lovely voice, and I believe that the song suits her voice rather well.. 6/10

John: One of France's strongest efforts from the last decade or so is almost like a blast from the past. Not unlike the typical French "chanson" from the heydays of the 60's and '70's but with a contemporary feel, the song builds gradually to a very full and satisfying finish. 7/10

OUR VERDICT - 29.5/50

OVERALL SCORE - 5.9/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: AUSTRALIA!

Australia's participation in Eurovision divided people. Some people the fact that they're competing in Eurovision, whereas others didn't take too kindly to the announcement. Personally, I'm thrilled the Aussies are competing. Guy Sebastian will be hoping to win the contest and ensure Australia compete next year too... Although some say they'll be back regardless of Guy's result. We'll see. Here's what we think of Australia's first ever Eurovision entry...

Ana: Europe gave Australia one chance and they've wasted it. Guy Sebastian composed and sent the song in only 7 days and here we have the result: a correct song with no options in the contest. I don’t feel the Eurovision spirit here, so I guess this is a goodbye. 5/10

Ilkar: I'm not taking sides whether should Australia be in or not but I'm happy they are as their song is one of the best. He's got great vocals, it's catchy, groovy and I love those horns. It's different from all the rest and will drive the audience wild in the arena. I wish them a very good placement (but not a victory!) 9.5/10

Jack: Australia participating in Eurovision has been rather controversial and divided the Eurovision fan community back in February when their pressence in Vienna was confirmed. I was thrilled when I heard the news and Guy's song didn't disappoint. Far from it. I think Australia are possible winners. Maybe. People might just vote for them on the novelty factor alone and to ensure they compete next year - would this song be such a favourite if a European country sent it? Hmm. I like it though. I find it ironic where the lyrics state 'We can do tonight again'... is this a subtle hint to the EBU? ;-) 9.5/10

Jess: I was not sure what to expect from Australia for their debut, but Guy really has delivered by giving us such a brilliant song! I think it will be one to watch in the contest! 8/10

John: I have a sneaking regard for the Australian entry. Infectiously poppy, it's a grower for sure but might suffer from being perceived as a bit of a gimmick on account of being one-off . What if it wins? Will it be Sydney 2016 and Australia as a permanent fixture on the ESC agenda??? It will be interesting to see. 8/10

OUR VERDICT - 40/50
OVERALL SCORE - 8.0/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: AUSTRIA!

Austria are our hosts this year following Conchita's iconic win last year. Now the question is - can Austria do the double? Here's what we think..

Ana: I had to get used to this song but now I absolutely love it. It’s nothing surprising or innovative and maybe is that sobriety what makes it perfect. I think that it can get lots of points from the international jury but not so many from the European audience. That's why I think they won't reach the top 10. 8/10

Ilkar: They were my faves to win in Austria. Great vocals, good song, good arrangements in the 1970's rock ballad style. 7.5/10

Jack: Austria's entry isn't one of my favourites however I do think Austria could do surprisingly well.Not many people are talking about this one. Juries should love it. But I can't see Austria hosting the 2016 contest though that doesn't mean it's a bad entry.. 5.5/10

Jess: The Makemakes are such a great band, and the song is great too! 6/10

John: Austria is back on form again this year with a different-sounding but  interesting song. It is instantly accessible with a memorable tune and a strong delivery from the lead singer of  The Makemakes. The more I hear it the more I like it. 8/10

OUR VERDICT - 35/50

AVERAGE SCORE - 7.0/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: POLAND!

Monika Kuszyńska is hoping to give Poland its first ever Eurovision win. She sings a very emotional song with a beautiful message.. Check out our reviews below.

Ana: This is a more than correct ballad, sung by a more than correct girl. The problem is that correct entries are not enough at Eurovision. It has nothing special, it stays at the same level from the beginning until the end and it’s not memorable at all. This song leaves me absolutely cold. 5/10

Ilkar: This is beautiful, love the piano. She sings well and it sounds like a some world hit from the 80's (in a good way). (This sounds even better in Polish giving it a more authentic touch but unfortunately we won't hear that in Vienna). This sounds like a real song that was born by playing with piano and letting the music come out, instead of sitting down and ”let's write an Eurovision entry now” method. The video is touching when knowing her story. 8/10

Jack: Monika Kuszyńska was left paralyzed after a car accident in 2006 but this never stopped her pursing her dream. Music. It's not the best song in the competition, but I always feel a tad emotional when I hear In The Name Of Love. It has depth. The official video-clip shows Monika before the accident performing and it's very beautiful. For me, Poland has the best message this year. Life may be tough but if you want something so bad, then you can and will achieve it. Monika proves this by representing Poland with this stunning ballad. Fantastic! 8/10

Jess: Monika has a lovely voice and the song is pretty amazing. I think it suits Monika's voice perfectly! 8/10

John: Leaving aside the fact that the last 30 seconds or so is quite repetitive, Poland's offering this year is a very good ballad "In The Name Of Love". Strong on melody, orchestration and vocal delivery, I reckon the Poles are a safe bet for qualification almost as safe a bet for a top 15 finish. Good luck Monika. 7/10

OUR VERDICT - 36/50
OVERALL SCORE - 7.2/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: SLOVENIA!

Maraaya are among the favourites to win the contest and it would give Slovenia their first ever win. Ljubljana 2016? Here's what we think....

Ana: I’m not feeling this song as much as most people do. I can’t say that it’s bad, but for me it’s just pleasant and correct. Maybe it still has to grow on me. Anyway, it’s nice to listen to something different since this isn't a typical Eurovision song and I love her voice. 6/10

Ilkar: What to say? This is awesome. I love everything about this: her voice, the arrangement, the air violinist, her trademark headphones... Slovenia is going for their best result ever in Eurovision. This differs from all the rest, it's catchy and memorable in a good way. They've got all the right cards, don't mess them up with some over the top staging, please..... 9/10

Jack: Can Slovenia finally do it? I would love to see Slovenia win and Maraaya would be worthy winners indeed. The lead singers voice is unique and can be compared to the likes of Duffy. The violin rocks, the headphones are fabulous and it's so damn catchy. Wherever Slovenia place, it's an entry they can be proud of. 10/10

Jess: Well, all I can say is that Here For You is so so catchy and it's a song I can't help but get up and dance along to! 8/10

John: It says something for a song when you find yourself humming the tune to it after listening just once. That's what I've been doing with this year's Slovenian entry. They have sent some fab entries in the recent past but this is the cream of the crop. I would dearly love to see another Balkan victory this year. Could it happen ? It's a very real possibility. 9/10

OUR VERDICT - 42/50
OVERALL SCORE - 8.4/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: CYPRUS!

John Karayiannis represents Cyprus with a very gentle and innocent song... is less more? Check out our reviews below:

Ana: When I start listening to this song it’s like: “ok, it’s beautiful”, but one minute later I've almost fallen asleep. In my opinion, John has no options even though he has a nice voice. Definitely, this song would need something else to make it more interesting. 3/10

Ilkar: From the series ”less is more”. I didn't like this at all at first but now I'm liking it a bit too much to my liking. If he nails it the big night this could go very far. Or flop completely if he doesn't. 7.5/10

Jack: My first impression was yaaaaaaaaawn - but One Thing I Should Have Done isn't bad I guess, just a bit bland and boring. Can't see him making the final but the juries might like it.... BRING BACK IVI ADAMOU! 3.5/10

Jess: I think John has a brilliant voice and even though I am not the biggest fan of his song, it is starting to grow on me. 6/10

John: A gentle and pleasant song from Cyprus this year might find itself being just a little too underwhelming to have mass appeal. Reminiscent of David Gates’ “Everything I Own” – though melodically very different and not even fractionally as good – I honestly don’t think it will be strong enough to trouble too many of the other contestants. 4/10

OUR VERDICT - 24/50
OVERALL SCORE - 4.8/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: SWITZERLAND!

Mélanie René won the Swiss national final back in January and therefore the right to represent Switzerland
in Vienna next month. Is it Switzerland's time to shine? Or have the lights gone out? Here's what we think!

Ana: This song is quite good and powerful and Melanie’s vocals are really strong. It won’t be easy for her to reach the final, since there are several women singing dark songs this year. It’s a more than decent but not outstanding entry. 7/10

Ilkar: Mélanie must have been hiding her true self and now she's found it: weird make up and weird dress in the woods. Ok. What is she? A wannabe Indian? And what's it with that panda eye make up? The song itself is useless with a very bad arrangement that still sounds like a homemade demo. Did she have a producer at all? Very amateurish in every way. 2/10

Jack: The Swiss national final was an interesting one for sure. Everyone predicted either Tiziana or Timebelle would win, yet Melanie shone on the night and deservedly won. She's gorgeous and with a the right staging, Switzerland could repeat the success they had last year. A great effort indeed! 6.5/10

Jess: Melaine was one of my favourite songs before she was chosen to represent Switzerland in Eurovision 2015, so you can imagine my excitement when she was announced as the winner of Switzerland's national final! The song has such a great message to it and this is defiantly one of my favourites! 9/10

John: Oh dear! It's been a while since Switzerland has managed to come up with a winning formula. Sadly, they haven't managed it this year either. Not that it's a BAD song - it just doesn't make a big enough impact. Come on Switzerland - you can do better. 5/10

OUR VERDICT - 29.5/50

OVERALL SCORE - 5.9/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: SWEDEN!

Måns Zelmerlöw seems to be the #1 favourtie to win Eurovision - but isn't this always the case with Sweden? Will the Swedish entry win? Here's what we think about Heroes....

Ana: Whichever way you look at it, this is perfect. I love the song, and the staging with those little and cute snowmen is just amazing. I remember when I first watched the performance and I couldn't believe what my eyes were seeing. Definitely, he’d be a well-deserved winner, so I have to give him a 10/10

Ilkar: Sweden has been accused of double plagiation; not only the song but the staging, too. Indeed, there are similarities or as they say ”inspiration sought from”. Anyways, the stage act is great but as it seems they can't have it in Vienna so who knows how effective the song is without that, as it is not the greatest of songs. Måns is a very good singer and performer but something is missing in this act to make it a real winner. Also, they have to fix the backing vocals. But Swedes know their tricks, I'm sure they come up with something equally awesome looking and do very well again. 8.5/10

Jack: As always, Sweden are the favourties to win, It seems they're going to do it though this year - if the polls and bookies are to be believed. Him winning wouldn't be a disappointment either because the whole package is fantastic. Awesome song, unique staging (or at least in Melfest...), Mans is amazing and it's Sweden! Even though I love Sweden's representation, it's not my ultimate favourte but would be happy to see him win. 9.5/10

Jess: If the song Heroes wasn't already perfect enough, the staging Mans had during Melodifestivalen really added to it! This is certainly one of my favourites this years! 10/10

John: The love/hate relationship continues with Sweden! This is a very very ordinary song. No new ground being broken here with a tune (of sorts) and a voice that has been heard so many times before it just becomes one big yawnfest. 4/10

OUR VERDICT - 42/50

OVERALL SCORE - 8.4/10

Let's not forget THIS...

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: ICELAND!

María Ólafs will represent Iceland with Unbroken. Is Iceland set to make the final for the eighth year in a row?

Ana: I really love this song and it’s definitely one of my favourites this year. Some people may consider it a little cheesy but I also love that cheesy point. She has good vocals and it’s not a problem for her to reach the high notes at the end of the song. I think that this little fairy of the woods will place very well and she’ll be in the final for sure. 9/10

Ilkar: Another song that lost most of its charm when translated into English. She's kinda sweet, the song's kinda good, the performance is kinda annoying – one can only be content they dropped the dancers from the Vienna act whol ooked like tipsy teenagers anyways, but still.... it's kinda boring one. 4/10

Jack: Hmm, Iceland's entry is pleasant but that's about it I'm afraid. Nothing amazing or extraordinary.. just "nice". I hear the dancers have been scrapped - and that's not a bad thing. It is a song contest after all. However I must say that this is 100% better than the monstrosity they sent last year.. I'll give Maria 6/10

Jess: Well Maria has such a magical voice, and Unbroken is a song I could just listen to over and over. Amazing! 8/10

John: Far from being one of Iceland's most memorable entries  this song is mediocre at best. There is nothing that makes it stand out. A very ordinary song with an unremarkable vocal, whether it makes it to the final is,I think, highly questionable. 5/10

OUR VERDICT - 32/50
OVERALL SCORE - 6.4/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: AZERBAIJAN!

Elnur Hüseynov is returning to Eurovision, after achieving 8th place in Belgrade with Samir. He won The Voice of Turkey last year so we know he'll be able to cut it live. Azerbaijan are considered on of the favourties to win. Baku 2016?

Ana: This song is AMAZING. It always gives me goosebumps and since I first listened to it I knew that this will be fighting for victory. I love the way it slowly builds in intensity and the sound of the orchestra. This is the best produced song and if to this we add Elnur’s voice, we have a winning combination. 10/10

Ilkar: Elnur is a great singer. The video and the song fit perfectly. I can totally relate to that hour of the wolf. I've been there. Unable to sleep, afraid to fall in sleep with fears and doubts. Waiting for the dawn. The song has a great melody, very interesting arrangement lines with the symphonic part but underneath a very tender rhythm going along with it. If only they manage to create this atmosphere on stage we might have a top contender here.... 10/10

Jack: Oh, isn't this gorgeous?! Elnur's effort in 2008 was weird and not in a good way.. but he's back with a beautiful sophisticated ballad. Fabulous! Following Azerbaijan's disappointing result last year, they will no doubt return to the top ten. And if staged correctly, Baku 2016 is very possible. The lyrics are also superb. 9/10

Jess: Elnur has such a brilliant voice, and the song is just wow! I can see this placing really well 9/10

John: Not a bad song - but not a remarkable one either - the entry from Azerbaijan will, if previous form is any guide, no doubt be a finalist and more than likely a Top 10 finisher. Good voice, pleasant tune but overall, for me, nothing special.  6/10

OUR VERDICT - 44/50
OVERALL SCORE - 8.8/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: LATVIA!

Aminata Savadogo is representing Latvia with Love Injected. After several years of not qualifying, Latvia's chances of making the final are stronger than ever. It's the marmite song of the year though - some love it, some hate it. This is what we think...

Ana: This song has slowly grown on me since Aminata won the Latvian national final. She probably has one of the best voices in this year ESC and she demonstrates it in the chorus. I only see a problem with this entry: you love it or you hate it. There’s no midpoint. 8/10

Ilkar: I don't quite see what people see or hear in this. I think it's screamy and a bit unpleasant. It has some originality in the arrangement for sure, but the song itself isn't that strong. 3/10

Jack: Latvia often picks the wrong song but thankfully that trend was been broken this year. All of the songs in Latvia's national final were pretty decent actually however they defiantly opted for the best one. Her performance was stunning. One of the best entries this year and Latvia's best song ever, in my opinion of course.. Can't wait to see her perform it in Vienna! I really hope Latvia's efforts with be rewarded with qualification and a good result in the final. 9/10

Jess: I wasn't a huge lover of the song at first, however now I really do like it, Aminata has a very powerful voice - she really adds something extra to a already great song! 7/10

John: Hard as I try to find some redeeming feature for this year's offering from Latvia I keep drawing a blank. Different is good - except it's completely off the wall! A nightmare of a song. Enough said. 3/10

OUR VERDICT - 30/50 
OVERALL SCORE - 6.0/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: ISRAEL!

16 year old Nadav Guedj won The Next Star and therefore also won the right to represent Israel back in February. His song was revealed a few weeks later - and everyone seems to think it's great. But what do we think of the Israeli effort? Are they going to qualify for the first time since 2010?

Ana: This is great, modern, fresh and fun. I love the way the song mixes so many styles of music without turning it into a mess. I also like the beginning, it seems that it’s going to be a ballad or a midtempo song and suddenly it explodes. I hope to see Israel in the final this year. 9/10

Ilkar: I can't get over the fact he's 16. This is a weird song. It's like three songs put together but somehow it works and more I hear it more I like it. The fact remains the televoters hear it only once. Anyways, he sings well and after the mama dedicated intro we get some more contemporary sounding stuff before it bursts into a typical Israeli Eurovision anthem with the already legendary line ”and before I leave let me show you Tel Aviv”. Pure poetry. Or maybe not. But it sure brings a smile on your face and if they make this work on stage we might be in for a surprise! ”Ok, three minutes, gotta go!” 9/10

Jack: Israel's entry is defiantly going to stand out in Vienna. It's fun, catchy and does have a wonderful Eastern vibe. Super! I hope Nadav will achieve the result he deserves. Israel are often so underrated. I'm still sad Mei didn't make the final last year. It's been four years since they qualified - will they make it this year? For some reason, I don't think they will. 8/10

Jess: This is a song I can not help but dance to! It's so amazing and Nadav has the perfect voice to fit this song! 8/10

John: Love it or loathe it no one can be indifferent to it. The song is really catchy and represents yet another new departure for Israel. With originality and flair and a middle-eastern flavour that makes its presence felt but doesn't dominate, this has got to be in with a serious shout. 7/10

OUR VERDICT - 41/50

OVERALL SCORE - 8.2/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: CZECH REPUBLIC!

The Czechs are undoubtedly the least successful country in Eurovision. They've come last twice (got nil points in 2009) and therefore decided to throw in the towel. Until this year... The Czech Republic are back and better than ever - even though that's not a hard task.Will Marta and Václav be the first Czechs to qualify? Here's our thoughts....

Ana: I don’t like this song and I don’t like their voices either, specially the one of Vlad. Although I don’t use to like this kind of ballads, this one is absolutely boring and forgettable in my opinion. They’ll need an amazing staging if the want to fight for a place in the final. 3/10

Ilkar: Another duet but a great comeback for Czech Republic, their best effort to date and most likely qualifier for the final, their first. Both are experienced singers with good voices. His voice especially is very memorable. As are memorable their physical attributes; boobs and arms. Somehow I wish they would have dared go for rockier sound in the arrangement as this is clearly a hardrock ballad. Rougher sounds in the backing track would have been a good option to stand out even more. 8/10

Jack: It's true, Hope Never Dies for the Czech Republic. Good song, decent vocals and I'd love to see them in the final. Yet I somehow have a feeling they won't make the final and will withdraw next year... I really hope I'm wrong about this though! It's great to have 'em back! 6/10

Jess: I am not a big lover of this song itself, however I do think that both Marta & Vaclav's voices work really well together. 5/10

John: Undoubtedly the best that the Czechs have sent to Eurovision, this lovely ballad is contemporary and easy on the ears. For all of that it lacks a “special something” that will allow it to stand out from all of the other ballads. I reckon it will be a run of the mill event on the ESC stage but I hope I am wrong! 7/10

OUR VERDICT - 29/50
OVERALL SCORE - 5.8/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: PORTUGAL!

Leonor Andrade will be hoping to give Portugal its first ever victory next month. Is a Portuguese win possible? Will Leonor even make the final? Here's our thoughts...

Ana: This is a very weak entry. The song is not memorable and Leonor's vocals are not amazing. Even at some points of the song her voice is really annoying. It would need another serious revamp, but it doesn't matter what they do, this is staying in the semi final anyway. 3/10

Ilkar: Like Switzerland this is in desperate need of proper production and remix. With the difference that I like Leonor and I like this song. This could well be on any Italian female pop star's album, only much better produced. This makes me think of Laura Pausini's songs, and I could even hear Emma or Amoroso do this for example. The result would though be completely different. But the corn is there somewhere..... 7/10

Jack: Portugal's entry is nice but I don't think nice is going to cut in Vienna.. Sad but true. Portugal will most probably not make the final but I'd be more than happy to be proved wrong as I do think it's a lovely song. Like Ilkar says, with a stronger production the song could have been a hit for Laura Pausini, Emma or even Annalisa. It sounds really good on the official album. Boa sorte! 8/10

Jess: Leonor has a lovely voice. I love just sitting down and listening to this song. 7/10

John: There's nothing I would like more than to see Portugal bagging its first Eurovision title. And although this song is a cut above some of the more recent entries from Portugal, I still don't see it bringing home the trophy. I like this song but wonder if it wouldn't sound better in English? Portuguese is not the easiest of languages and maybe this is a factor they ought to take into consideration??? 5/10

OUR VERDICT - 30/50
OVERALL SCORE - 6.0/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: NORWAY!

Norway opted for Mørland & Debrah Scarlett to represent them in Vienna. They narrowly beat Erlend Bratland in the national final - did Norway make the right choice? Is Oslo 2016 a possibility? Here's our thoughts...

Ana: I liked this song since I first listened to it. They are sweet and dark at the same time and even though they are so different, I love how their voices sound when they sing together. It’s a strange combination but it really works. This deserves, at least, be in the top 10. 9/10

Ilkar: Another very atmospheric song this year. Beautiful melody and arrangement, interesting voices and lyrics. The question is if they can create the intensivity and the atmosphere of the video also on stage. In the Norwegian final they weren't quite there but if they do better in Vienna this will do very well indeed. 8.5/10

Jack: Norway are contenders this year, y'all! Mørland & Debrah Scarlett's song is absolutely beautiful and I would be more than happy seeing Norway victorious. Their performance during MGP could have been better - Debrah was clearly nervous so I hope that won't effect her in Vienna. Even though A Monster Like Me is an awesome entry, there's still a part of me that yearns for a well-done pizza ;-) 9/10

Jess: What a brilliant song this is, and I just love how well Mørland & Debrah voices work together! 8/10

John: Mixed feelings here. It's a good song, sung well and makes quite a dramatic impact - but is it Eurovision? Sounds like it would sit well in a "Phanton of the Opera - The Sequel" type of musical. Doesn't tick any of the boxes that a typical ESC winner ought to tick - The Monster Like Me doesn't roll off the tongue quite as easily as "La,La,La" or "Boom-Bang-A-Bang" and the melody is not one you're likely to find yourself singing in the shower! But what do I know? 5/10

OUR VERDICT - 39.5/50

OVERALL SCORE - 7.9/10

REVIEWING THE CLASS OF 2015: MALTA!

When Amber won the Maltese national final back in November 2014, almost everyone was delighted. However since Warrior was revamped, the reaction has been mixed. Here's what we think about the Maltese effort...

Ana: I like this song because it’s dark but at the same time it has a positive message. Amber’s vocals are amazing and she makes me believe every single word she sings. I wonder if she’ll be able to stand out among so many women singing the same kind of songs and reach the final. 7/10

Ilkar: The revamp didn't do much to this one. It's shouty, I don't like the arrangement and in general its lost among all the other similar songs this year. And unfortunately I don't have much faith in her giving us a flawless vocal performance in Vienna. Screamy or shouty. One or the other it's going to be. 3/10

Jack: The revamped version has divided people for sure. Some really dislike it it, some love it... I am in the latter category for sure. Will Amber qualify? She deserves too! Probably the best song Malta has ever sent! I fear she might do unnoticed though, especially with an early draw and in such a tough semi. And another question - will Amber or Nina fare better in Vienna? 8/10

Jess: Wow, wow, wow, WOW! That is all I will say about Malta's entry. It has such a powerful message behind it, and Amber's voice is amazing! 9/10

John: The Maltese entry is a pleasant ballad with a strong melody. in a year which features so many ballads it would be easy for a mellow song to get "lost in the crowd" so to speak .Sadly I don't think there is anything so striking enough here to make it stand out from the others. I would also have concerns about the strength of Amber's live vocals. 6/10

OUR VERDICT - 33/50
OVERALL SCORE - 6.6/10