New music this week: Songs from Luke Black, Blind Channel, Diljá and more

The Eurovision 2024 season is beginning to heat up. Over the course of the next few months, we will all fall in and out of love with scores of new national final and Eurovision entries. But that doesn’t mean we forget about the artists from past contests.

Contrary to the commonly perpetuated myth about the song contest killing careers, we’re always thrilled to report that singers associated with Eurovision are thriving.

Here is our latest weekly roundup with a selection of the songs and music videos released recently by Eurovision stars.

New music from Eurovision artists: 2024 | Week 9

Luke Black – “Chainsaws In Paradise”

Did someone mention dark vibes? Luke Black is here to deliver! His latest track, “Chainsaws in Paradise,” dropped this week, perfectly timed for his performance in Serbia’s second semi-final of Pesma za Evroviziju. Luke earned his invitation after representing his country last year, and he didn’t disappoint. With a powerful metal performance that left us all impressed, Luke showcases strong rock alternative tunes, an epic voice that effortlessly transitions between softness and power, all enveloped in an atmosphere of darkness. Once again, Luke surprises us and skilfully guides us through the dark odyssey of his music.

KALUSH feat. KRUTЬ – “Десятка”

KALUSH, together with KALUSH ORCHESTRA, emerged victorious in 2022. Now, a new project has surfaced named KALUSHcollab, indicating an anticipation of more collaborations in the upcoming period. While this collaboration series isn’t novel, having been undertaken in the past, KALUSH has chosen to resurrect the idea. This week, they unveiled the song “Desyatka.” The initial collaboration features KRUTЬ, a familiar name from her participation in Vidbir 2023. KRUTЬ revealed that the song was written in 15 minutes and is based on a real-life experience. It revolves around a place very dear to her heart, Cafe Desyatka, an actual café in Ivano-Frankivsk, renowned among lovers.

Blind Channel – EXIT EMOTIONS

Blind Channel brought high-quality Finnish rock to Eurovision when they competed back in 2021. Following the release of numerous singles last year, they have finally unveiled a full album that is sure to resonate with rock music enthusiasts everywhere. What can you expect? Well, everything from alternative to metal and even rap. The album comprises 12 tracks, some of which were previously released, such as “Deadzone,” “Flatline,” “Happy Doomsday,” and more. Additionally, you’ll find intriguing collaborations on the album. The band teamed up with the American metal band From Ashes to New on the track “XOXO,” and with R∅RY on “Die Another Day.” This marks the band’s fifth album already, so brace yourself to receive your dose of rock.

Citi Zēni – “Cits Līmenis”

Are you ready for a burst of energy from Citi Zēni? The beloved Latvian band, who competed in 2022, have just dropped their second album titled Next Level. What sets this album apart is the joy and light dose of humour infused into each track, making it impossible not to love. Featuring 12 songs all in Latvian, the album includes previously released singles like “Cits līves,” “Vecumdienas,” and “Citu zēnu.” Speaking of collaborations, the album also features beloved Latvian group Lāvīlīgais tipis, who teamed up with the boys on “Baļļīte,” and Grēta on “Lūpukrāsas.”

In addition to the album, they’ve also released a music video for their track “Mazais bandīts” (Little Bandit), which is a humorous parody of today’s “cool” boys. With lyrics like “Little hooligans/ Old partisans/ Today, all the little snakes are on their own/ Who is the little bandit in the clothes?/ How are you and what are you doing?/ Who is the little bandit in the clothes?/ Where are those times, where are those years?” this tune is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Diljá – “Einhver”

Diljá, who represented Iceland last year, now surprises us with a heartfelt ballad that showcases her absolutely incredible voice once again. Mostly accompanied by a piano, her voice resonates deep within your heart. Titled “Someone” in English, she truly pours her heart out in this song. It might be unexpected from her, but it’s definitely a tune you need to hear — a pleasant surprise that will find its place in your playlists.

Tina Karol – “З тобою”

After representing Ukraine in Eurovision 2006, Tina continues to shine brightly through her music. Her latest song, titled “With You” in English, is the perfect love ballad you’ve been waiting for. It’s a romantic anthem ideal for spring, guaranteed to kindle your emotions. The lyrics overflow with love and passion, expressing how no external forces can disrupt the strong bond between two people: “With you/ Everyone gazes upon us, yet I am with you/ They may try to tear us apart, but I am with you/ Let them watch us.”

Tina says: “This song is like a photograph that will always preserve my feelings, but only I will know about them.”

ELENA – “Cel mai bun om de pe pamant”

The Balkan Girl from Romania, Elena, who proudly competed in 2009, is back with a new track. And yes, we remain in the realm of love songs. This track holds special significance for Elena as this year marks the 20th anniversary of her musical career. At the onset of the spring season, Elena wanted to present her fans with a love song perfect for these warm and bright days. The lyrics express being deeply in love with “The best person on Earth” (as this is also the English translation of the title): “You came like a May sun/ And we climbed onto a piece of paradise/ And I feel so good when I’m with you, please stay/ I fell in love in a minute/ With the best person on Earth/ You chased away the clouds and brought me the dawn with a kiss.”

Kalomira – “Rolling”

It’s time to groove to Kalomira’s latest track! Returning with even more brilliance since her 2008 Eurovision stint for Greece, Kalomira’s new song hit the airwaves on 1 March. Infused with retro-dance vibes, it’s a catchy tune that’ll have you itching to dance. With its infectious energy, the song is a certified banger with immense radio potential, showcasing Kalomira’s powerful voice flawlessly.

Nathan Trent – “parole”

Nathan represented Austria in the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest, and he’s now embarking on a significant milestone in his career. The title of his new song, which means “words” in Italian, reflects his first songwriting venture into Italian-language music. With his father hailing from Austria and his mother from Italy, Nathan’s Italian heritage is evident. The serene yet powerful song signifies a fresh chapter for Nathan, both as an artist and a singer-songwriter. Regarding the song’s message, he added:

“I wish to all of you, who listen to this song to remember who you are and that you deserve to be loved, respected, and treated well.”

maNga – “Yüzleşme”

Turkish rock band maNga have returned with an exciting new song. Given our longing for Türkiye’s presence in the competition, memories of maNga’s impressive performance in 2010 come flooding back. As demonstrated before, maNga have a knack for remaking songs from the renowned Turkish rock band Kargo, and this latest release is no exception. Known for their mastery of rock music, maNga delivers a stellar remake. Titled “Confrontation,” the song delves into facing one’s past and the anguish that arises from past hurts and love lost: “My fears remain concealed now, when no one inquires about me/ All my loves have dimmed now, as the past fades away when you no longer remember me.”

TVORCHI – “Два озера повні сліз”

TVORCHI competed for Ukraine last year, and this week, they returned with a captivating remake. Their new song, translated into English as “Two Lakes Full of Tears,” originally belongs to Kuzma (Andriy Kuzmenko). They captured the emotions from the original song and presented them in their own interpretation in the new track, which serves as the soundtrack to the Ukrainian movie I, ‘Victory,’ and Berlin, based on one of Andriy Kuzmenko’s novels. The band members discussed their selection of the song further:

“We’ve long been impressed by Kuzma’s work; he’s a unique musician who unfortunately isn’t enough recognized today. This particular song may not be the most famous in his repertoire, but it’s incredibly intriguing. Filled with sadness and delicate passion, it feels like a voyage into the very essence of ‘Victory’ he wrote about. With its non-classical structure, each listen unveils something new, keeping the experience fresh and engaging every time.”

Marcin Wyrostek & Orkiestra Symfoniczna Filharmonii Śląskiej feat. Kasia Moś – “Za Raciborzem siedem mil”

With her crystal-clear voice, Kasia represented Poland in 2017. Recently, she embarked on an extraordinary collaboration that is sure to make waves. Marcin Wyrostek, a renowned Polish accordionist, joins forces with Kasia, accompanied by the Polish Silesian Philharmonic, for an utterly magical experience. Titled “Seven Miles Beyond Racibórz,” the song transcends mere music; it’s a complete musical odyssey where masterfully crafted instrumentation melds seamlessly with Kasia’s vocals to transport you to another realm.

AWS – “Fények nélkül”

This week is undoubtedly a triumph for rock music. AWS, the Hungarian band that competed in Eurovision back in 2018, are back with another rock music hit! So, get ready, as some Hungarian music is exactly what we’ve been looking forward to hearing, while still holding out hope for the country’s future return to Eurovision. The song is a perfect alternative rock track, accompanied by a music video that offers a “robotic view of life.” Titled “Without Lights,” the lyrics speak of being trapped in a past from which it’s difficult to escape, a past that has left scars on your heart and you wish you could mend: “If I don’t manage to start again/ My spirit will remain/ Like an old memory in the light.”

Jóhanna Guðrún feat. Halldór Gunnar – “Zombie”

This week also brought us several remakes, and here we have something interesting coming from Iceland once again. Jóhanna, who represented her country in Eurovision 2009 under the name Yohanna, still possesses the amazing voice we remember. She collaborated with Halldór Gunnar, who provides the acoustic instrumental for her song. The original version of “Zombie” was released by The Cranberries in 1994, and the song addresses the victims of violent conflicts, raising awareness and expressing a wish for peace.

Mike Tramp – “Mand Af En Tid”

Mike, who represented Denmark in 1978 as part of the band Mabel, is back with a pure rock track, so get ready for it! (As we’ve mentioned before, this week is all about rock music.) The song is titled “Man of The Times,” and its lyrics convey a message of leaving a lasting impression and making life count: “I am a man of the times/ I know I’ve been here before/ I’m standing on the platform/ While the trains come and go/ I’m out of season/ As the waves crash against my door/ I am a man of the times.” Mike brings back some old but gold authentic rock vibes that are impressive, showcasing why he is indeed a legend in his own time.

Amaury Vassili & Romain Ughetto – “Je voudrais déjà être roi”

If you’re a fan of Disney movies, then the next song is just for you! Amaury, who represented France in 2011, has teamed up with the French artist Romain Ughetto for a delightful collaboration. Bursting with energy, they present the French version of the iconic song “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” from the beloved animated movie “The Lion King.” Get ready to be swept away by nostalgia as you recall this epic Disney film while listening to Amaury’s track.

Dayana feat. Andrei Ursu – “Vom fi amândoi”

Andrei Ursu competed under the stage name WRS for Romania in 2022. This week, he brings us a sweet song with retro influences. The track is a collaboration with the Romanian artist Dayana. Their new cute love song is accompanied by an adorable animated lyric video. “We’ll be together, whatever happens / Through storms and rains, I’ll stand by your side / Hold me tighter and don’t let go / I know you know what love is,” the lyrics serve as a promise to a loved one that no matter what challenges life may bring, love will always prevail.

Rambo Amadeus – “Lažem Kad Zinem”

Straight from Montenegro comes the legendary Euro Neuro, Rambo Amadeus, with a new song filled with sarcasm, serving as a parody of society, as evident from the music video. Get ready for a satire on lies, ambitions, and disillusionments: “I lie to the horse, the king, the rook/ I lie to the Pope, the Hodge, the Friar/ Most of all I lie to myself/ I lie even to my own psychiatrist.”

About the music video and the song, Rambo said:

“The video, after we edited it, unequivocally refers to the eternal gap between excessive ambitions and limited abilities. (…) In the video, our ambitions are shown by speaking at a stylized lectern, and our limitations – by sitting in prison. There are many reasons why we lie, but they can all be summed up under two: Fear and excessive ambition. The former is dominant in children, the latter in adults.”

New national final songs from Eurovision artists

As fans will attest, once you’ve got the Eurovision bug it’s hard to let go. So it’s no wonder that every year some past participants of the contest want to have another chance at representing their country.

Here are the new songs from Eurovision stars released this week that have been entered into a national selection for Eurovision 2024.

Jalisse – “Il Paradiso è qui” (Una Voce per San Marino)

Jalisse, the renowned Italian duo, represented Italy in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1997. This year, they were guests at Festival di Sanremo and contestants in Una Voce per San Marino with their song “Paradise is Here.” The song is a powerful ballad that showcases their enduring musical quality. It’s a love song that emphasises how love is more powerful than anything, and heaven is a place on Earth when with the right person: “Paradise is here/ It’s who we are/ Two letters of a poem, I love you madly/ The road that will take me to you.” They finished in 10th place.

Which of these new songs is your favourite? Have we missed out on any? Do you have any artists you want to shout out to? Let us know in the comments.