Söngvakeppnin 2020 kicked off with the first semi-final being held on 8th February. Five songs/artists competed on the night with the Icelandic public being able to choose the top two that would qualify direct to the grand final.
For the semi-finals all songs must be performed in Icelandic. Those making it to the grand final are then obligated to perform in the language that they wish to perform at Rotterdam.
The five songs and artists were:
Kid Isak has the look and feel of a Bruno Mars but the song doesn’t live up to his standards. A couple of dancers added during the half way mark merely highlight the Kid’s deficiencies. The performance doesn’t get out of first gear and feels like it should be in English.
Elta þig (Haunting) – Elísabet
It’s not Elísabet’s first time in Söngvakeppnin. The song and performance are a complete yawn fest. No light, no shade....nothing to keep your interest...nothing to keep you wanting more.
Augun þín (In Your Eyes) – Brynja Mary
One of the saddest costume reveals I have seen, which basically sets the tone for the song. Not a fan of songs sung to a Casio keyboard...unless it is ‘The Cure’. This is a saccharine number and no cute pantsuit or backup dancers are going to save it.
Klukkan tifar (Meet Me Halfway) – Ísold og Helga (qualified)
Ísold and Helga are wearing some sparkly numbers that have been poorly fitted and sewn together. They do the old staging trick of walking together, sing to each other, walk apart, sing to each other and then repeat. Simple and unimaginatively suitable for the song they are singing.
If you’re looking for an Icelandic, 4 piece heavy rock / metal band that look menacing...you will not find it here. This sad attempt at a heavy metal song entry for Eurovision ensures Lordi’s ongoing legacy of being the only heavy metal band to win the contest.
The second semi is on next week and it’s over to Ellise for some Oculis Videre love. 2 further songs/artists will be chosen and RÚV has the option to add a wildcard for a grand final of 5.