With the first semi-final of Eurovision 2019 only a few days away, things are beginning to hot up in Tel Aviv as fans continue to debate who will end up taking home the trophy on Saturday. But amid all the anticipation, a number of this year’s contestants haven’t forgotten that life must go on after the confetti has all been cleared away.
Joci Pápai, John Lundvik and Carousel have all recently released some new music for us. So if you’re a fan of their Eurovision entries, then here’s a roundup of their latest songs that you might want to check out as well.
Joci Pápai – “Te vagy a békém” (with Missh)
Those who just know Joci Pápai for his passionate and traditional-infused Eurovision entries may not have thought he’d be the sort of person to head down the pop-hip-hop route. But, that’s exactly what the Hungarian singer serves in “Te vagy a békém” (“You’re my peace”).
Teaming up with Missh, who provides a rap verse in the middle, the song sees the two artists discussing their desire for someone who doesn’t seem willing to commit to them just yet: “You’re hiding something, you won’t tell me…I’ve never been yours / Sin is beautiful with you…The moment was left for us to do it again, for some reason / You are my peace”.
The accompanying music video shows Joci serenading the woman he sings about in the lyrics while she works her angles in bed and in the bath.
John Lundvik – My Turn EP
Amidst the rehearsals in Tel Aviv, John Lundvik took the time to drop his debut EP My Turn, named after his Melodifestivalen 2018 entry.
Things start off slowly with the guitar-driven ballad “Say I Do”, which sees John wanting to take his relationship to the next level. “Loving You” takes things up to the mid-tempo region with a tropical beat that would be suited for a lazy summer evening in the sun.
Following on from Eurovision 2019 entry “Too Late For Love”, the Swedish star takes things in a more traditional pop route with “Sucker For Ya”. With a strong guitar and drum beat in the chorus, it’ll definitely get your foot tapping along. Finally, the gospel-tinged power ballad “My Turn” closes off the EP.
While each individual song is competent in it’s own right, as a collective EP there’s a lot of things going on here. It’s clear that John has many musical influences, but it may take some more time for him to hone in on his own sound. Nevertheless, the EP serves as a nice taster of the possibilities to come.
Carousel – Sketches of Sleepless Nights EP
Carousel have also released their own debut EP, entitled Sketches of Sleepless Nights. Unlike with Joci and John, if you’ve heard their Eurovision 2019 song “That Night” then you’ll know exactly what to expect from this new record. Serving more of their indie-folk sound, the EP effortlessly drifts through four new songs.
Admittedly, these tracks are unlikely to win over any new fans. There is an overarching feeling of ‘background music’ running through the EP, particularly when songs such as “Little Monster” are five and a half minutes in length.
However, those who enjoy what the Latvian group are bringing to Eurovision, and want to get lost in the atmosphere they’re creating, may find a gem or two in the mix.
What do you make of these new releases from Eurovision 2019 contestants? Whose songs will you be putting on repeat? Do you prefer any of these songs to their Eurovision entries? Let us know all your thoughts in the comments below!
Great new song from Francesco Gabbani – just out last Friday.
Madame Monsieur released a new track too. “Comme si j’avais mille ans” feat Kalash Criminel
Alexander Rybak also released new music in the past couple of days “I’m Still Here”. Very different for him – straight up pop. He’s also playing piano far more than the violin. Very good song.
Sabine’s vocals on Silly People are heavenly mesmerizing! ?
No Joci, no.