Belgium

In one of the first national finals of the season, Belgium chose Gustaph and his song “Because Of You” in an unexpected upset. While at first we were not a fan of this entry, it has grown on us. Gustaph clearly has the vocal chops and the queer energy to knock it out of the park. He also had the most wholesome reaction to winning the Belgium national final <3 All of that being said, it would have been pretty spectacular if Belgium had instead chosen “Ça m’ennuie pas” by Chérine.

France

This year France is bringing style, glam, class, shoulder pads, and a fascinator. La Zarra’s song “Évidemment” is catchy and feels luxurious. This creates a killer combination when paired with the sparkly minimalist style that La Zarra executes perfectly.

Albania

After a disappointing non-qualifier for Ronela last year, Albania went in a different direction this year with a family performing their dramatic song, “Duje.” At first, we didn’t really know what to make of it… and to be honest we still aren’t sure.

Greece

Through an internal selection, Greece chose 16-year-old Victor Vernicos with his song “What They Say.” Not our favorite song. It’s pretty bland and Victor’s English enunciation leaves a lot to be desired. As the youngest competitor we just have to say, maybe next time.

Israel

In an internal selection process, Israel chose Noa Kirel’s “Unicorn.” This was a much teased and anticipated entry. In our professional opinion, there are good vibes but not enough unicorns. However, she does repeatedly ask “do you want to see me dance?” so we do look forward to seeing her dance on stage!

Ukraine

Ukraine held their live national selection in a modified subway station, which they managed to make look better than some other countries’ actual performance venues. While they had a number of good contestants including the operatic “When God Shut the Door,” Ukraine ultimately chose the duo Tvorchi’s “Heart of Steel” to represent them in Eurovision. Since Ukraine was the winner of the contest last year, Tvorchi are guaranteed a spot in the final. “Heart of Steel” is a groovy R&B song with a unique sound that stands out from the other entries this year. We also think that the performance does some very cool things with the videography and projection.

Slovenia

This was an early entry to be announced, in part because Joker Out is one of Slovenia’s biggest rock bands and so the selection committee jumped at a chance to send them to Eurovision. Their song “Carpe Diem” is reminiscent of some classic rock songs from the 70s that Ursula likes, while Christa is not as big a fan. Regardless, with their large pre-existing fanbase, it is likely that they will make it through to the final.

Georgia

One of the final songs released, Georgia’s Iru Khechanovi shows off her impressive vocals in her song “Echo.” While the English lyrics don’t make a lot of sense (it is not a secret), the song is impressive and catchy, and the music video is fantastic with her many different outfits and hairstyles.

Switzerland

Through an internal selection process, Switzerland chose former The Voice champion Remo Forrer. “Watergun” is one of the few ballads this year, and with a topical anti-war theme this entry stands out. Also, Remo has the vocals to make the song truly special.