Finland: Saara Aalto – Monsters

Shi:  If I had to pick one song that suffers the most from “can finish anywhere between top 3 and failing horribly in the semi-final” syndrome, it’s this one. In theory Finland have a great starting point for doing well, with a catchy, slick and modern pop song, and a talented, experienced performer who can work an audience and the cameras.

In practice they have a few problems. The first is the “let’s do something for Eurovision” issue. They went for a very safe mainstream pop song, perhaps in an attempt to make the entry more accessible to a wider audience in spite of Saara Aalto’s love of all things over-the-top. Instead, it ends up as a reminder of why your best shot is to own who you are: the song is not wild and “out there” enough for Saara’s performing style, and instead of her softening its OTT-ness, her approach makes it feel even more out of place.

I’m also not entirely sure this year’s Finnish team knows the difference between a talent show staging and a Eurovision one. The former can work if you’re Dami Im singing a song like “Sound Of Silence”, but “Monsters” requires a more creative approach. I really want it to do well, but I have a sinking feeling it will become another one of those “great in studio, not great for a live performance” songs.

Martin: Odds-wise, the Finns have been on a rollercoaster all season long. I’ve never fully warmed to Saara as a performer, and “Monsters” is hindered by an overly simplistic and repetitive hook, as well as backing vocals that will be tough to replicate live. But I still think non-qualification predictions are an overreaction to the early-season hype.

Felix:  I haven’t enjoyed Saara Aalto’s previous UMK entries, and I’m just not her biggest fan in general. But there’s an exceptional song for every artist you’d otherwise avoid, and I’m happy that Saara’s exception is for Eurovision. While I never warmed to her either, I do like “Monsters” a lot.

video and title image source: eurovision.tv