Martin (9:40)
Last night, EuroClub played host to the Belarusian party, and I think it’s fair to say that there are a few sore and regretful heads around the press centre this morning. It was in many ways the first “real” party of the ESC fortnight, with all due respect to Ireland and their lovely afternoon pub gathering – or indeed the Scandinavian party near the Turning Torso yesterday that was invitation-only. By contrast, this one was for everybody with a badge around their neck, and the high-ceilinged hall at the heart of the Slagthuset building was packed to the rafters.

The free wine, beer and long drinks were flowing (at least until they ran out at around midnight), and the food was very much Swedish in nature, although Belarus surely has fish and potatoes too. (But probably not gremolata.)

Several of this year’s artists turned up to make appearances on the EuroClub stage. Estonia’s Birgit performed the Russian version of her entry before Natália Kelly belted out “Shine”. Klapa s Mora from Croatia then presented us with an a cappella version of “Mižerja”, while Moje 3 delivered “Ljubav je svuda” dressed in normal clothes (and looking quite relieved to be out of their ridiculous stage costumes and just enjoying themselves).

The stage was then graced by Lozano and Esma from Macedonia – it was a genuine pleasure to be in the presence of a musical legend like the esteemed Ms. Redžepova, who just exudes calmness, joy and star quality, even when she’s lip-synching – followed by Farid from Azerbaijan, who appears to be revelling in his role as the eye candy among this year’s participants. And of course the set was concluded by Alyona Lanskaya from Belarus giving it her all on “Solayoh”.

Once the Belarusian event was over, the remaining EuroClub attendees enjoyed the rest of the evening’s scheduled entertainment, with stage performances from MF rejects like Marie Serneholt and Jenny Silver (and Who See from Montenegro, for some reason – had they turned up late?). Somewhat implausibly, the party crowd on the dancefloor for the subsequent DJ set included Cezar from Romania, who seemed to know the moves to “Dancing Lasha Tumbai”. The things you see at Eurovision…

Filled with good food and blue drinks, I went home happy (and not too worse for wear, unlike certain colleagues I could mention!). Managed to avoid the temptation of falafel en route, too. Result!

Felix (12:37)

Good morning from the press centre, and with legs even more hurting than yesterday morning. I hope you at least enjoy my photos.

I’m sitting here with a muffin, a coffee and with my hoodie on as it’s quite cold in here, and always a slight breeze going through the air.

I can hardly walk for aforementioned reasons, but I did get the latest OGAE prediction results for you:

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In semi-final 1, Denmark, Russia, the Netherlands and Ireland – according to the fans – look the most dangerous (which doesn’t necessarily match with my own thoughts). In semi 2, San Marino, Azerbaijan, Greece, Norway and Georgia have the biggest trust in them. No big surprises there, but based on what we’re hearing around the press centre, Hungary seems a dark horse as well.

Danny (12.50)

Afternoon all! The press centre today isn’t too hectic, I think quite a few people are taking it easy after last night’s partying – EuroClub has finally come alive. I arrived a little too late for the free food and drink at the Belarussian party, though I did manage to sample some rather strange sweets and just managed to see Marie Serneholt perform “Disconnect Me” – she is the “host” of EuroClub, introducing all the acts. All in all a good night was had – Eurovision has definitely begun!

Martin (14:30)
The press centre organisers have laid on a treat for us today – tons and tons of Swedish biscuits. And from my own dealings with the family copy of Sju sorters kakor, I can testify that Swedish biscuits are good! Here’s the evidence:

A great way to celebrate a successful if brief meeting with Natalie from Cascada – she’s a popular girl! Our meet-and-greet interview with her will be up shortly.