2020 Festivali i Këngës again took place at the end of December, delivering an overwhelmingly large set of potential Eurovision tracks. The format is a little different to other selection shows, and there have been updates to the format due to Covid. Semi-final one showcased the studio versions of 25 entries (one of the 26 needed to withdraw due to Coronavirus) with semi-final two the following night showing an acoustic set, again of all 25 entries. Everything was pre-recorded rather than being performed live due to social distancing rules. 18 songs progress to the final on the third night.
The opening number started with a quiet, ‘Covid-empty’ montage of streets around Europe. The apocalyptic feel gave way to an amazing Albanian choir breaking into song, dressed all in white, supporting an ice queen soloist atop a giant flame statue, with dancers touching only through a Perspex screen, and a solo pianist on a white grand piano. THIS GAVE ME LIFE!
Of the 25 numbers, there were a few standouts:
Era Rusi with Zjarri im. Wow. A blonde bombshell in an all-gold warrior outfit, six drummers on stage also in all gold. This is one of those war-cry, heavy dancing, Southern European numbers, with lots of pyro. Cracking tune.
Rosela Gjylbegu with Vashëz. Very promising. A definite Albanian flavour to the beat with an initially simple tune over the top, which builds into a strong song and a great voice. Love this, although could be a little similar to Jonida in 2019
Xhesika Polo with Më mbron. Eyebrow alert!! A power ballad which can hold its own, and a beautiful, pained voice. My favourite so far.
Fatos Shabani with Ty. Just a guy on a guitar (with some fantastic violin and cello) - quite a different feeling to all the other songs. It’s uplifting and gentle. Really great entry.
Anxhela Peristeri with Karma. This is leagues above everything that has gone before. Full production, a great, strong Albanian pop song (with amazing use of oboe) and 4 gold clad dancers. Absolute smash.
Festina Mejzini with Kush je ti dashuri. Oooh, a purple dress (must have missed the monochrome memo!) This is one of those wailing, pained numbers, which I’m sure talks of pain and love lost. Quite like it - showcases that genre well. And she can belt a note out for sure.
Kamala Islamaj with Kujtimet s'kanë formë. This reminded me of a 1990s ballad from the outset, which I really enjoyed.
Mirud with Nëse vdes. This was the favourite on a few blogs (like wiwibloggs) and maybe that’s why it was on last. I personally found it a bit ridiculous, and I expect his ‘look’ with a gold and black catsuit with an exposed chest tattoo was what people thought was interesting, but he actually just looked like he was coked off his face, and it just wasn’t a great song.
A very long night…