The third judges’ auditions show of the X Factor Malta is due to take place tomorrow, but before then, let’s take a look back at the goings-on from the second lot of auditions. Will one of these end up as Malta’s act for Eurovision 2020?
After avoiding the issue for so long, TVM finally confirmed that the winner of the X Factor will also be the one who gets the ticket to Rotterdam. And with that, the show just got a whole lot more interesting.
But before Eurovision dreams can start, it’s down to business for the X Factor Malta. The judging panel — made up of music manager Howard Keith Debono, rock legend Ray Mercieca, singer-songwriter Alexandra Alden and Malta’s Eurovision queen, Ira Losco — were back to hear more hopefuls.
One of the big stand-out auditions of the episode was from Jelena Attard. In her pre-interview, she came across as a sweet, petite young lady. But when she opened her mouth, the judges were hit with Hurricane Jelena. She proved herself to have serious vocal chops as she delivered a loud and emotional performance of Adele’s “One and Only”. Judge Ray exclaimed, “That’s the X Factor, that’s what we want”. And of course Jelena is off to Bootcamp.
Kyle Cutajar is a familiar face from last year’s series of X Factor Malta. Back then, he auditioned solo but was put in a group (Systm 12) who were eliminated at Judges Houses. He delivered Sam Smith’s “I’m Not the Only One”. As well as showing off his vocal chops, he also touched judge Alex who was moved to tears by the song of heartbreak. Kyle will get a second chance at Bootcamp.
Bernardette Mangion delivered another memorable audition. She spoke of issues with bullying before auditioning with Andra Day’s “Rise Up”. Bernardette stumbled on a few notes, but the judges urged her to take inspiration from the lyrics and rise up. She gave an impressive audition which secured her a place in Bootcamp.
Benjamin Attard talked about his work as a music therapist and also mentioned his hidden talent with Elvis impressions. But the audition was all Benjamin. He delivered a surprisingly folk version of LMFAO’s “Sexy and I Know It” with a touch of “Screamin’ Jay” Hawkins’ “I Put a Spell on You”. He showed off his full talents and left the judges well entertained, earning Benjamin a ticket to Bootcamp.
We also want to give a shout-out to Maria Magro. She auditioned with Charlotte Perrelli’s (née Nilsson) Eurovision winning song “Take Me To Your Heaven”. And while her vocals weren’t up to the X Factor standard, Maria put everything into her performance and left the judges entertained. And it’s evidence that La Perrelli’s song remains a Eurovision classic.
Jelena, Kyle, Bernardette and Benjamin will be joined at Bootcamp by Cain Portelli, Cherton Caruana, Dayle Camilleri, Demi Galea, Estelle Imbroll, Fitzpatrick Schembri, Glenn Farrugia, Justin Mamo and Rebecca Mifsud. As well, traffic wardens Anthony Scinto and Chris Cassar — who auditioned as individuals — have been put together as a duo.
What do you think? Who should make it to the X Factor Malta live shows? Would any of these singers be a good pick for Malta to take to Rotterdam? Tell us your thoughts below!
Keep your eyes on Jelena Attard. Give her an awesome power ballad and Malta could finally make the top ten again.
Kyle is HOOOOOOOOOOOOT
There’s something about Ira’s face that’s so soothing. Almost makes me forget the disappointment of 2016. I want her to make a third-time-lucky Eurovision return.