#melfest14: Second rehearsal reviews and photos

In less than 24 hours the first semi-final of Melodifestivalen 2014 will kick off inside the Malmö Arena. Helena Paparizou, YOHIO, Sylvester Schlegel, Alvaro Estrella, Linus Svenning, Mahan Moin, Elisa Lindstrom and Ellen Benediktson will do their best to snatch a golden ticket for either the Grand Final or Andra Chansen. Judging from your heated comments on the first #melfest14 rehearsal videos, you have some very strong opinions. Let’s feed the fire by taking a closer look at today’s second rehearsals!

YOHIO‘s dress rehearsal:

For many, YOHIO is already the winner of MF. He gave his supporters more credibility in today’s dress rehearsal, which was a visual spectacle. He wore a futuristic black leather suit with golden details and a flash of pink, perhaps referencing last year’s costume. His new hair is also adorable. YOHIO, along with his vocalists, are covered in sequins. It’s fitting: he shines like a star.

Mahan‘s performance:

Mahan Moir struts onto the stage to the sound of John Newman’s “Love Me Again”. Today she wore the black dress she promised us yesterday. Her performance is energetic, happy and doused in orange and black. Sadly not even that will save her Asian-inspired pop song from failure…

Elisa‘s song:

Sexy, dynamic and again sexy! Elisa Lindstrom wears a barely-there black dress that only covers the essentials. It works well with a song called “Casanova”! Her elegant dancers, in suits with bow ties and shirts, fully support this visually. What a shame it’s a mediocre song…

Linus‘ performance:

Known for his extraordinary covers on YouTube, Linus Svenning appears very confident as he sings “Broder”, a touching entry about brothers. The screens show him and his family (mostly his brother). He keeps the performance simple visually by wearing a black leather jacket, a white t-shirt and jeans with boots. The music speaks for itself.

Alvaro‘s dress rehearsal:

Call the fashion police: Alvaro would be better off wearing the previous rehearsal’s clothes. This white shirt, black suit and pair of classic shoes do not suit him at all! However, they do fit the vibe of this 70s-era song, which features a clean, plexy-glass cube and several dancers. No idea why his song’s title is “Bedroom” and not “Boom”…

Ellen‘s song:

Ellen has emerged as a favourite with our readers who will not stop posting nice things about her. Ellen Benediktson performed “Songbird” and drew rapturous applause from her fellow competitors. Although she is only 18 years old, she is in command of her unique, very sweet voice. Red, white and orange colors appear on stage, with 6 big lights dangling from the rafters. The effect emphasizes the young songstress, who wears a shiny black dress.

Sylvester‘s dress rehearsal:

Dressed much better than during yesterday’s rehearsal, Sylvester Schlegel sings “Bygdens son” wearing a red suit with black stripes and a hat. With black, white and red lights, he seems comfortable with his performance, even if the next participant will make everyone forget Sylvester’s song…

Helena‘s performance:

With Courntey on her side providing vocal support, Helena Paparizou wears an elegant black dress with lace. This song is all about letting us (and anyone who has done her wrong) know that she is a “Survivor”. Her hair shines under the thick light. It’s not a Dior commercial, but it is surely one of the most elegant performances of the show. But that’s almost irrelevent. It’s her strong and beautiful voice that will make the Swedes vote for her.

The full versions of the competing songs will be revealed tomorrow at 14:00 CET. Stay tunned to wiwibloggs for the latest news on #melfest14!

Billy Xifaras contributed this report from Greece. Follow him on Twitter at @bill_xifaras. You can also keep up-to-date on the latest Eurovision news and liking our Facebook page.

Photos: SVT