Eurovision artists Darude and Sebastian Rejman released their first of three song proposals today to represent Finland at the song contest in Israel in May.
The first song is a radio-friendly track is called ‘Release Me’ and features DJ Darude’s music production with Rejman’s vocals. Although there’s an up-tempo beat, the vocals are sung fairly slowly, with a repetitive chorus. You can watch the video for ‘Release Me’ at this link.
The next two tracks will be released on consecutive Fridays, with the eventual winner being chosen during a live show in Turku in early March by tele-voters and juries.
What’s the first reactions
The new track already received plenty of comments on social media, both positive and negative.
“Too generic, obviously not Eurovision song!! Let’s look forward to the two other pieces. There should certainly be more speed and the energy” says one Facebook user.
“Can’t be said to be generic at all. However, in the Eurovision Song Contest music doesn’t solve anything, so yes, this is the way to go for contest” says another.
“Release Me is a decent start for Darude, though I’m not overly keen on that first drop. Looking forward to the two other songs!” says a user in Twitter.
“It’s so freaking good! Can we just say, he is the right one to represent Finland in Eurovision 2019. Very good job!” says another Twitter user.
“The new Darude song does not sound anything like [Darude’s biggest international hit] Sandstorm. Let’s face it, it is a huge minus. Instead it’s melody (plus the title, duh) reminds me of Agnes - Release Me that is well known in the Eurovision community. Not impressed”
There are just 99 days left until the annual song competition, organised by the European Broadcasting Union EBU, gets underway.
Finland has won just one time back in 2006 when masked musicians Lordi triumphed with ‘Hard Rock Hallelujah‘ in Athens.
Read more about Darude, Sebastian and Finland’s Eurovision strategy at our story here.
