It’s Melodifestivalen time again. The competition starts in Malmo Arena, the host of Eurovision Song Contest 2024. As a dedicated ESC fan, I’m doing this report even in the middle of an African safari.
This year, there are five heats with six songs and no Andra Chansen. Top two will qualify to the final. And, the third and fourth placers are eligible for the runoffs off at the end of heat 5 for the final two spots. Our host Carina Berg opened the show with an entertaining song and dance number. And, each postcards featured acts helping with backstage stuff in Mello.
Adam Woods opened the competition with his song “Supernatural”. It’s an EDM pop track showcasing Adam’s vocals. The staging is simple with Adam standing alone on the stage with changing LCD graphics.
Song 2 is “Hela varlden vantar” from Samir & Viktor. It’s another fun party song from them. The two sung together while having fun like buddies. Samir even gave Viktor a kiss in the cheek.
Up next is Mello newcomer Melina Borglowe with her song “Min Melodi”. It’s a sweet guitar ballad. Melina was alone on the stage and surrounded by circular lamps. She was smiling all through out, and very happy performing there.
We’re on to song 4, and it’s Elisa Lindstrom with “Forever Yours”. It’s an energetic schlager. Elisa showcased her singing and dancing skills in this performance. This definitely hyped up the audience the arena.
Mello veteran Lisa Ajax is up next with her song “Awful Liar”. This is another beautiful ballad from her. She was joined by two interpretative dancers. There was a big pink moon on the LCD screen. And, Lisa turned to the side one time to show her baby bump. She delivered the song very well.
Closing out this first heat is Smash Into Pieces with “Heroes Are Calling”. They gave another fiery performance showing their strengths with rock songs. The theme is post-apocalyptic. And, there is even a laser show on the second half.
There is a usual recap and voting portion after the performances. Then, the first winner was announced. Congrats to Smash Into Pieces for making it to the final! They reprised their performance from the green room to the B-stage.
Another round of voting has been opened. And after that, the band A*teens performed a reunion performance with a medley of their hit songs. This gave many people nostalgia like me. After the interval act, the points from each age groups were announced. Lisa Ajax won the second ticket to the final. She also gave a winning reprise on the B-stage.
Here are the results of the first heat of Melodifestivalen:
Finalists
1. Smash Into Pieces - Heroes Are Calling
2. Lisa Ajax - Awful Liar
Run-offs
3. Elisa Lindstrom - Forever Yours
4. Adam Woods - Supernatural
Eliminated
5. Samir & Viktor - Hela varlden vantar
6. Melina Borglowe - Min Melodi