Ukraine has one of the best records in Eurovision. It’s won the contest three times in the past 20 years, and it’s made the final every single time it’s entered.
That will not change this year.
Ziferblat’s Bird of Pray is a blast of British-inspired power pop, all layered instruments and harmonies, with jangly guitars alternating with sonic blasts. The whole thing is an absolutely irresistible, and, of course, something that sounds nothing like what Ukraine has sent before. That’s how deep the bench is in this country.
I have warned elsewhere about the folly of judging entries based on pre-party performances, which are often done in venues which do not approximate Eurovision conditions, but I think I fell even more in love with Ziferblat after seeing them at Eurovision in Concert this year. They felt like a proper arena rock band, all big lights and bombast.
Look, it’s a minor miracle that despite being at war for years now, Ukraine manages to participate in and send credible and wonderful acts to Eurovision. Yes, there is the political advantage of appearing on the main stage and reminding a billion people that they are still a country that is fighting for its independence. But they aren’t doing so with blatantly, nakedly political songs. Instead, they are letting their own artists stand on their own and deliver the performances that they want to perform. That is, in its own way, the best advertisement for freedom and democracy that Eurovision can offer, with this trio simply getting up and singing a beautiful pop song.
dudepoints.fun 