Anton Attard, Chief Executive Officer of the Public Broadcasting Services as well as the Head of Delegation for the past three years confirmed that Malta will be returning to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2014 following a guest appearance on the daily evening talkshow, TV Hemm produced by Where's Everybody. In light of the success achieved at the esteemed international competition in 2013 thanks to Tomorrow co-written by Boris Cezek and Dean Muscat to the vocals of Gianluca, Attard stated this exposure for the country has been important even towards giving exposure to the professionality of the local music scene. 

Malta has been competing in the Eurovision Song Contest every year since 1991 and has never missed the contest due to the initial relegation rules that had been set in place noting consecutive top ten results from 1991 until 1998 and then from 2000 until 2002. Since the introduction of the semi-final system, Malta has managed to qualify on four out of eight occasions, these being in 2004 with On Again .. Off Again performed by Julie & Ludwig, in 2009 with Chiara and her entry What If We, in 2012 with This is the Night sung by Kurt Calleja and of course, last week with Tomorrow performed by Gianluca.

Anton Attard, currently Head of Delegation and Chief Executive Officer at the Public Broadcasting Services has helped rebrand our participation in the Eurovision Song Contest, working hard with his team to achieve the best possible production quality and the best results both locally and abroad. He states, that he will be putting forward a proposal to the Board of Directors at the broadcaster about his plans for the 2014 selection process but more will be revealed in due course. Stay tuned to escflashmalta.com, even on Facebook and Twitter for all of the latest news with regards to next years' edition of the Eurovision Song Contest in Denmark. 

Source: TV Hemm, Emil Calleja Bayliss (image)

The 58th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest came to an end during the early hours of Sunday, at around 01:00 CET when the broadcast was cut during the reprise of the winning entry Only Teardrops performed by Emmelie de Forest. The winner of the Dansk Melodi Grand Prix had always been the favourite to win the international spectacle and assured her place in the history books amassing 281 points, the fourth biggest in terms of statistics. 

Nevertheless, whilst Denmark recorded their third victory at the Eurovision Song Contest, Malta finished in a brilliant eighth place, making it the first top ten finish since 2005 when CHiara had finished in second place with her entry Angel. Gialuca and his charming on stage antics had managed to steal the hearts of many during the fortnight and as he landed in Malta, he was greeted by hundreds of fans at the airport. It was indeed, a heroic welcome. It was an extremely tight situation according to The Times of Malta who stated that bodyguards were duly needed in order to ascertain the protection of the young doctor. 

The crowd varied from elderly to children, awaiting that signature on a poster or postcard. Gianluca managed to do what the artists in the past seven years have not been able to do and that is to enter the top ten. Tomorrow co-written by Boris Cezek and Dean Muscat is also becoming an international hit according to digital sales through iTunes. We'll await the official charts to be released in a couple of days but things look extremely positive. We urge you to stay tuned to escflashmalta.com even through Facebook and Twitter for all of the latest news as soon as it becomes available. 

Sources: esctracker, Times of Malta

RAI, the broadcaster responsible for the participation of Italy at the Eurovision Song Contest has opted in favour of releasing the fifty percent split of the result in both the first semi-final and the final and there seem to be quite a couple of intriguing figures. During the semi-final stage of the competition, the Italian public clearly had one favourite and that was Zlata Ognevich with her song Gravity which received 42.3% ahead of Moldova's entry entitled O Mie performed by Aliona Moon which got just 15.5% in comparison. During the final, the tables turned and support shifted towards Romania and Moldova leaving Ukraine in the lurch and a third position. 

Italy were represented by Marco Mengoni and his song L'Essenziale who managed to take the nation into the top ten for a third consecutive time, finishing in seventh place, just ahead of Malta whose entry Tomorrow sung by Gianluca was awarded the second biggest amount of points from the Italian nation. In the tele-voting portion alone, Malta would have been given four (4) points in total and that means that the ten (10) points given during the show were a mixture of both public and jury votes respectively. You may view the full document as published by RAI here whilst we remind you to stay tuned to escflashmalta.com even through Facebook and Twitter for the latest news.

Source: RAI

Chris and Moira, the representatives for Malta at the 1994 edition of the Eurovision Song Contest have somewhat been lurking in the shadows in recent years, stepping away from the limelight but it seems that the time is right to release some new material, their first in around five years. 2013, has been rather different for them noting performances all over the country as well as during the Malta Eurovision Song Contest as the results of the semi-final were to be announced. Chris and Moira are no longer a duo, havoing become a four piece band in recent years ,with the addition of Billy B on bass and Philip Borg Barthet on drums. Such a line-up has somewhat spurred them on to create new thumping sounds in the studio. 

The result of the foursome will ultimately be an album, one which will be officially released later on this year as some last minute tweaks take place. Until then though, in order to quench the thirst of fans, Chris and Moira have released a brand new original single entitled Flight 170 which marks a fresh chapter in their music career. 'The song was written with a comical approach, a bit like wanting to send everyone to hell instead of the usual love story lyrics'. Rolling in with a fairground type of chime, the song quickly picks up the pace, pushing ahead over a solid rock backbeat and a catchy melody that is as immediate as it is powerful. “It is rather different from what people might have expected from us” Chris commented,  “and it is also quite different from the rest of the album, which I would say is more ‘us’ but sounding fresher than ever before”. 

Flight 170 is available to stream on Chris and Moira’s YouTube channel. The single is also available to buy as a digital download on iTunes. For more information, visit the Chris and Moira page on Facebook. We urge you to stay tuned to escflashmalta.com for all of the latest news as soon as it becomes available, which is also found on Twitter and Facebook respectively. 

Source: Press Release (Michael Bugeja)

Tomorrow, co-written by Dean Muscat and Boris Cezek with vocals provided by Gianluca managed to win the Malta Eurovision Song Contest back in February. Since then, Gianluca embarked on a promotional tour across Europe where he visited several nations including Hungary, Romania, The Netherlands, United Kingdom and Armenia amongst others. In each of the rehearsals, Gianluca was seen to be a dark horse for victory noting that the foreign press described him as having one of the best personalities in this years' competition. A simple tune with a positive message is everything that Malta could have hoped for, ultimately leading to an extremely positive result which saw the nation getting points from most of the participating countries.

San Marino and Italy were amongst the beginning to vote and as a matter of fact, they both awarded Malta a total of ten points which were then followed by Norway later on during the evening. Tomorrow did not gather any points from Sweden, Albania, Austria, Israel, Serbia, Finland, Bulgaria, Belgium, Russia, Montenegro, Slovenia, Croatia and Switzerland respectively. In the semi-final stage of the competition, Malta did even better noticeably finishing in fourth place achieving top marks from three countries, including FYR Macedonia, Norway and Azerbaijan. Despite the fourth place finish, it was only a mere three points away from being the first runner-up. Gianluca along with his team consisting of Louise Ann Bugeja Tate, Samaria Bezzina, Gabriel Cassar, Kenny D'Ugo, Christopher Tate, Dean Muscat and Boris Cezek deserve a round of applause but the Maltese Delegation led by Anton Attard and incorporating Peter Carbonaro, Daniel D'Anastasi and Joseph Mizzi also deserve salutations for their hard work.

Since Anton Attard took over back in 2011, the results have been improving every year as Malta manages to reach their best position since the runner-up finish achieved by Angel performed by Chiara back in 2005. Sweden is becoming a hub for success when it comes to the Maltese Participation noting that back in 1992, Mary Spiteri managed third place with her entry Little Child whilst in 2000, Claudette Pace finished in eight place with Desire. Gianluca has also managed an eighth place finish with his entry Tomorrow. We would like you to stay tuned to escflashmalta.com for all of the latest news about the Eurovision Song Contest as the Public Broadcasting Services unofficially confirms a return to the competition as this is Malta's thirteenth top ten result. 

Source: Eurovision.tv

Good Evening! Welcome to the escflashmalta.com live coverage of the 58th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest which is taking place Malmö, Sweden. Earlier this week, thirty-three (33) countries competed in the semi-final stage of the competition, which was split up into two, one held on Tuesday and the other held on Thursday. Malta was a qualifier from the latter with Gianluca and his entry Tomorrow co-written by Boris Cezek and Dean Muscat managing to make it a second year in a row for the Mediterranean nation. This evening, they will be joining the pre-qualified countries including those who financially contribute the most towards the event on an annual basis; France, Italy, Spain, Germany and the United Kingdom as well as the hosts for the year, Sweden.

In recent years, social media has become an important tool to get a message across and escflashmalta.com has been proud to keep you updated through both Facebook and Twitter whilst bringing you exclusive content through Flickr and YouTube respectively. This evening, the special coverage that is annually planned is set to be conducted by our Senior Editor, Antoine Farrugia as well as guests; Brooke, winner of the Best Solo Award at this years' edition of the Malta Music Awards as well as Lauren White, an upcoming Irish singer/songwriter who most recently signed a Publishing Deal with the Universal Music Group. Our support goes towards Malta who will be performing at position number #09 this evening. Follow the Final as of 21:00 CET on Television Malta.

The Show (Part 1)

So here we are today, the Grand Final of the Eurovision this year! Opening starts with flashbacks from last year and Loreen getting many twelve points and being crowned the winner in Baku, Azerbaijan. Now, we see a snail crawling and a shot of a hot air baloon. This 'snail' is now travelling on many things like cars and other transport material. I think it has to do with the butterfly, maybe it's a caterpillar in the end! It got to France and now it's on the snow! This caterpillar seems to be a huge thing in this opening. It slept and woke up again, this time in Malmo! As I thougt, it's this year's theme the buterfly! Welcome to Sweden and to Malmo! It starts right here!

A choir is on stage all clad in black! It consists of a huge number of singers. The song just went from a ballad operatic one, to a more up-tempo song! People are all waving their flags! The song is 'We Write The Story' written by ABBA, the Swedes who got fame thanks to Eurovision! It being sung by B&B choir! On the same 'bridge' that Loreen was last Tuesday! We have the singers from the Final travelling on it carrying the flags by other people infront of them! There was Gianluca, our own representative, I wish him all the greatest luck for today! This is pretty amazing, it's really different, nice to see all the singers unite! Anouk is dancing her way through the bridge in a funny way! After they walked the whole bridge, the ones carrying the flag goes on stage with the flags in various lines! This is just perfect for my eyes! I love this opening! This song is available to download from iTunes! The waves are the attention now!

And here's the host of 2013! Petra Mede is clad all in pink, a very girlish dress I must say! Wasn't expecting this dress on her at all! The song we just heard is the new anthem for eurovision and it was written by two members of ABBA together with Avicii. We must admit, she's right that it is getting bigger and bigger every year! Petra said that this show is being aired in 44 countries including Australia, although it's 5am right there! Petra is explaining the voting method after all the songs are performed! Nobody can vote for their own country! She's explaining the official application for the Eurovision and vote from there! Petra said 'May the best song win and let the competition begin!' Goodluck to every single contestant!

France

Wish i could understand what she's saying... i love the melody very sexy and very rock. Different but i like it and the singers amazing raspy voice. Emotions are incredible. (Brooke)

First up is Amandine Bourgeois with her song 'L'enfer Et Moi'! Amandine is one of the Big 5 countries! Great audience tonight! I hope the sound is good since she's arranging her headphone from the beginning. I like the outit she's wearing and her hair is really nice today compared to rehearsals! This song is quite the same except for the chorus where there's a specific beat. At least, she's singing on a stand cause if she wasn't I'm sure she'd be going around the stage like crazy all the time. The song is getting better with the guitars all the time! Vocally. this is great! This is a really nice show although I would imagine some dancers on stage with Amandine, it would've looked so much! Huge applause from the audience! Liked this one! (Antoine Farrugia)

Ok I like the dark feel and the rock chick feel to it, but personally I cannot stand Eurovision songs not in English. I lose interest half way through. Sounds like it should be on an advert for Bodyform lol (Lauren White)

Lithuania

Graham Northon said "you'd dress better to come and see the contest" that to me explains it all. His look i dont like. But the song is strong but there are stronger. Nothing special. (Brooke)

Something from Lithuania and Andrius Pojavis. He passed from the first semi-final! He's dressed as he was in the semi-final as many acts will obviously be. I don't know something really. How this song passed through the semi-finals, that's what I don't know Andrius. This is always going the same and not a single change is in the song. Plain simple too much for Eurovision. Is it possible, not having any better songs to send from Lithuania?! I never got the concept of this song at all. I don't think this will be breaking through the score board at all. I think it will get a position towards the end, unfortunatley for them but this doesn't simply gain a good position. (Antoine Farrugia)

I don't like it and I was baffled that it got through the semi final. It's boring. The song is weak, he is a weak performer and the backing singers are boring. "I'm not in love with it" sorry Lithuania. (Lauren White)

Moldova

Not fond of her dress... and again.. i ask myself... why sing in a language half of europe wont understand? i cannot relate to whatever she sang. Vocal technique sounds really good. I like the dress gimmick. (Brooke)

Aliona Moon, the one who had the big big dress from the first semi-final from Moldova with O Mie is next. Vocally Aliona started really shaky. Still having the same hair-style, I believe Jedward are a bit jealous now. Aliona is not so good today vocally, she's not hitting all the notes. This chereography is just amazing, I like it way too much. Pasha Parfeny is also on the piano too. It's getting better from Aliona now! It's getting that vibe in the arena when the dres goes up! Strong vocals now! The song reached a near-perfect point! I liked it from the first I listened to it! Turned out to be not as expected but still really good! Deserves a middle position on the score board. (Antoine Farrugia)

I'm convinced I have heard the melody of the chorus before. Reminds me a bit of Serbias winner a few years ago. Great hair and only good thing about this song is the dress. (Lauren White)

Finland

Very similar to Hot n Cold & i kissed a girl by Katy Perry. I think the song is old pop now. If she makes it in the top 10 it's because the controversy and the promotion she got over the famous kiss. (Brooke)

Marry Me and Krista Siegfrids for Finland. She got through last Thursday from the second semi-final. This is one of the favourites. She way too adorbale in that dress! She doesn't have the same breath as last time or she started way with too much energy. The backdrop still is just too much for me! We're in Sweden not Las Vegas! A really girlish performance this one is! It's nice though! The song is quite enjoyable and has that beat that keeps you taking notice of it no matter what. Too many fireworks on stage, though they go a lot with this song! Great perofrmance from Krista! Here's the kiss once again! This will get a good position I think. (Antoine Farrugia)

It's something that reflects the charts now, very Katy Perry. Very catchy and love the lyrics!! I'm in awe love it all!! THAT'S THE WINNER!!!! (Lauren White)

Spain

Boring! Was bored by the second line she sang. Very pitchy. (Brooke)

Big 5 again! El Sueno De Morfeo (ESDM) with Contigo Hasta El Final which translates to With You Until the End. What a great introduction, it gives you a different vibe to other songs, so folk-ish! She wore a really nice yellow dress with gold. She's wearing shoes today, gold sandals! She's way too shaky for me! This song is getting better musically! Turned into a pop-rock one! Are those shoes or no? I'm confused! A really nice song though! I'm enjoying it but I think they won't get a great position. She sang her final line in English! WOO! Great ending and good feedback! (Antoine Farrugia)

Has the Celtic theme. Be nice listening to it on a Sunday, but it can't make up its mind what it is. Too many ideas mixed into one. Although I like the bagpipes riff but to be Spanish singing always sounds out of tune! (Lauren White)

Belgium

Love kills over and over...?? Does it?? Isnt he the youngest singer there?? Plus... not really the message you wanna get across. Production of this song is beautiful. He scares me, i dont know why. (Brooke)

Roberto Bellarosa with Love Kills for Belgium. He got through last Tuesday! Vocally he started really good today! This isn't one of the favourites, infact it got through as a surprise. The chereography is based lyrical and we see the lyrics on the backdrop at some points. Vocally, he isn't any good too much now! The song is quite mainstream for me, you find many songs like this! Another thing, is that he is not helping the performance at all just by standind on a stand. Not a good thing to do with this song Belgium! The song is good but it has something missing I don't know why I'm finding it hard to like it! Not sure about the position! (Antoine Farrugia)

he just ruined it for himself jumping up and down like that!!! Lol! (Lauren White)

Estonia

I think she is beautiful, lovely smile. She seems like she's having a great time singing about whatever she's singing about. (Brooke)

Estonia, Birgit Oigemeel and Et Uus Saaks Alguse up next! she got through from the first semi-final which was quite a surprise for me to pass since it wasn't one of the favourites. The shots start black and white and it is just so nice to see a different screen at least! This is one of the most melodic languages I think! She's clad in all white like last time! I think this will do not bad. I'm liking it more than last time a lot! It's making sense to me finally! Her voice is too nice and she's really good vocally today! Such an angelic moment in this Eurovision which surely makes difference from the other songs since most of them are up beat songs! The vibe in the audience is so much better today than in the semis! I'm finding it quite nice today! It might get a good position for Estonia! (Antoine Farrugia)

Start of it sounds like Bwitched's song Blame it on the Weatherman!! But it's a beautiful song, very uplifting and she's lovely to watch, even though she's wearing her bed sheet! I think it's gonna do well!!(Lauren White)

Belarus

If i had to close my eyes and listen to this song i would be able to guess by the intro it's a eurovision song. They should create a genre called Eurovision. Fed up of the same songs! That is why i like Malta! (Brooke)

Solayoh and Alyona Lanskaya for Belarus. The disco ball is back on stage from last Tuesday! Quite a nice opening for me! That dress is too short I think, it's like Eleftheria Eleftheriou from Greece last year. Vocally, she's really bad. I don't know but the singers are stressed a lot today or they got too much energy! She's not much of a dancer for sure! The song is good, I find it quite an interesting song if many of those boom boom booms at the back were reduced because it gets always the same after some time! Musical break where Alyona shows her bad dancing skills, sorry! This is enjoyable though! The song is so so good for me! This will get a middle poition in the charts! Great response from the audience! (Antoine Farrugia)

The same Greek/Turkish beat that we have heard every year for the past 10 years! But again, I like it I would dance to it, reminds me of Holly Valance "Kiss Kiss" LOOK AT THOSE legs. Repetitive, but half of Europe like that sound! Every year..... (Lauren White)

Malta

Graham Northon likes the song A LOT! So simple and Perfect!!! Breath of fresh air!!! Well done Gianluca. The audience is singing their heart out! (Brooke)

Malta up next! Goodluck Doctor Bezzina! Tomorrow is the song! The clip before is so nice, we see how Malta is nice! Let's hope he will be good! GOODLUCK GIANLUCA! By the time the ukele starts clapping is the thing you hear and people going Oh Oh! He got his smile back on the stage! All the performers seem so happy to be back on stage again! The audience are enjoying it too continuing the Oh Ohs all the way through! The song is really good, relaxing from the one before this! Vocally, gianluca is good too/! THe catwalk thing he did is just so good! He's enjoying it way too much! He doesn't have any breath left unfortunately! Was a great performance! Great job Gianluca! (Antoine Farrugia)

Hey hey!! I'm with you guys!! Lovely sweet song! Ill be voting! That's all I have to say  BEST OF LUCK!!! "Hey soul sister-very like that and I've goosebumps hearing everyone sing! You finally got it right Malta-looks so happy to be there!! (Lauren White)

Russia

Such a strong ballad. Top 5 for me! Goosebumps all over! (Brooke)

Dina Garipova, What If are up next for Russia! She got through from the frist semi-final last Tuesday! She starts off a bit shaky too! She has got a nice voice for sure! I think she's a bit stressed today, it sound in her voice! This is one of the favourite ballads this year! I'm finding it rather a bit boring, it never changes! Vocally, this isn't the best performance Dina gave. The bridge is so nice! My favourite part of this performance is when the audience light their bulbs together! So so nice! Vocally, she's not good at all! But I think this will gain a quite good position, maybe top 15! (Antoine Farrugia)

Khloe Kardashian singing for Russia  its a beautiful melody and I'm a sucker for strings. Very uplifting and positive.. "What if" this wins..... Nah don't think so! (Lauren White)

Germany

Summer 2013 Anthem!!!! Feels like a party all of a sudden. Love it. (Brooke)

Germany and Natalie Horler from Cascada and Glorious is up next! This is one of the most favourites entries and believed to get back the Eurovision in Germany. She's glamorous for sure! I jsut can't stand this revised version shortening it! She's way before the music and she is one of the best performers on the stage today! She's insane jumping and dancing on that staricase. She's performing the song way too good! A really good contender for the win I think! It got a bit more personal, toning it down! Before Cascada gets down the staircase, and the song turns into a magnificent entry for sure! She's writing history! Vocally, she's not really good though! This will be top 5 for sure! Great response form the audience! (Antoine Farrugia)

 I like Cascada and I don't think it's like Euphoria. But it's not a winner. I was expecting more and I think something is missing from the chorus... Raging!! (Lauren White)

Armenia

His voice is nice. He needs to improve his look, big time. Cool soft rock song. (Brooke)

Lonely Planet, Dorians and Armenia up next! They got through last Thursday! Tony Iommi form Black Sabbath wrote this song! It starts out so nice! He's a bit late contrary to Cascada! Vocally, he's super! This is a really rock song by a great band! Still, I think it has that something missing! His voice is jut so so nice to listen to! I still think there is way too many jeans fabric on stage! The song is getting better in my opinion! His riffs are spot on on pitch! This song is so nice! I don't know how, but many are ranking it really low! I think it won't be high on the final scoreboard, but not the worst positions, maybe mid scorboard position! Better than Thursday I think! (Antoine Farrugia)

The only thing standing out to me is his eyebrows. BORING and whiny blah! (Lauren White)

The Netherlands

I don't get the fuss about this song. Nice melody in chorus verses are slightly boring. Anouk is a great singer and this song does not show off her voice. Backing Vocals are stunning! (Brooke)

Anouk and her Birds falling from the rooftops for The Netherlands! One of the hottest to win! The beginning is just great! I wasn't a fan of this song at all until last Tuesday! Her voice is so clear but it is a bit shaky! This song is beautiful compared to others! The audience is loving it, screaming all the way through! This may be a bit too slow for Eurovision, but it is great let's admit it! This is a performance everyone should enjoy! I don't have words to describe it. I think this will do great tonight! Amazing that's all I can say! Great job Anouk! (Antoine Farrugia)

I love this song!! Love her voice and it's so different to anything we have ever seen!! It's my favourite next to Finland! But I'm singing it constantly!! (Lauren White)

Romania

I cannot stand this song. Im off to make some more popcorn and a cup of tea. (Brooke)

Cezar, Romania and It's My Life up next. He got through last Thursday as a big surprise for everyone. Why are there people screaming for him? I don't find it interesting in any way. Here ends the ugly part of the song and we go to the uglier part of the song. How did he pass? How did they let him on stage? That outfit is really not nice to look at. I think Cezar should stick to opera and forget his pop-opera attempt. The bridge shows his vocals a bit better, but I still don't like it. First entry from Romania that I don't like in all the years they participated. No, this won't do well I hope! (Antoine Farrugia)

I see Rylan from X Factor with a voice. An unbelievable voice and should be on Andrew Lloyd Webbers next show. At this point beyond words so find your own. Not a winner. (Lauren White)

United Kingdom

UK need to send a good singer like Bonnie Tyler with a GOOD SONG. Good perfromance but there are loads of great and better song in the final tonight. (Brooke)

Bonnie Tyler from United Kingdom singing Believe In Me. She's already a superstar around the world so I don't know what she's doing here. What the hell just got in her voice in the beginning? Her ooutfit is just plain simple. The song is nice but like lsat year, it's old for the Eurovision. Her voice is so good now! Although, there are some notes off at times. This performance is getting better. Her voice is just so so beautiful. She's walking the catwalk and she reached the platform where it got slightly up a bit! I think they will get a better position than last year! (Antoine Farrugia)

Hello 1980! I don't understand why they're sending oldies each year.. I think it might do ok, the chorus is singable but just can't get the thoughts of her kissing her husband out of my head! (Lauren White)

Sweden

I had to raise the volume during this song. It's BEAUTIFUL!!! I wouldnt mind having the next years eurovision in Sweden again. No. 1 for me!. (Brooke)

Sweden is up next and Robin Stjernberg with his song 'You'. This is the host country and ofcourse, the audience went crazy! He's wearing white and beige! Audience is clapping and screaming every single time! The song is so so nice and vocally he's really good! this is a great performance I think! Whoa! He missed some words! They got off the platform they are using on stage! And they went back up again! Can't understand why it is there really! This is one of my personal favourites but I thought it would come across better! That high note was great in my opinion, was needed in the song! It will get another good ranking for the Sweden! (Antoine Farrugia)

Ryan's brother. I like it, it's catchy and his vocal is amazing. He should be swinging from trees in the jungle!! Sweden never cease to amaze me with their pop! (Lauren White)

Hungary

I still wonder how this song made it through. Is he a singer or a rapper? (Brooke)

Hungary with their representative ByeAlex with Kedvesem which was the first qualifier last Thursday. Great feedback from the audience! The audience is so hyped up tonight! This is a rather boring song this year. Don't know how this got through. Many are saying that it will gain a top 10 position, I really don't know why! Vocally, nothing special at all and I think that the song didn't take much time to be written. It is boring to death. If I try to close my eyes, I'd sleep! As what happened to The Netherlands, I didn't know what to write, same happens here but in a bad way. No, just a no! (Antoine Farrugia)

 it's nice and sweet not my cup of tea and I see we have a Donna Donna McCaul lookalike as a backing vocalist. I'm bored though of the same two guitar strings being plucked! (Lauren White)

Denmark

I love the instrumentation of this song. I think its very similar to one of my fav songs in the charts right now. Her voice is very particular and very warm. Top 5 for me. (Brooke)

Denmark's representative Emmelie De Forest, who is one of the favourites today with 'Only Teardrops'. WHOA! Great feedback! this is truly the favourite in the audience! I like this song too and a lot not just like any other song, but sill I don't think it will win even though she has what it takes to win! Visually it's great, as well as vocally! She's feeling the win coming, I can see it in here smile! She's enjoying it more than last Tuesday! The audience is loving it too! Great show from Denmark today! Can this be the winner?! It can, it really can. Not quite sure if it will with the juries! Who knows?! I'm sure this will be heard a lot through Summer! (Antoine Farrugia)

I am always a fan of Denmark. Love her voice. Mixture of Shakira and Dido. Celtic theme again and great build up I am interested! (Lauren White)

Iceland

His voice is amazing. I bet he'd be a great Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar. Nice song but would have preferred him singing in English. (Brooke)

Eg A Lif with Eythor Ingi for Iceland. This got through last Thursday! Such a beautiful beggining this song has! This is the most melodic language I have ever heard in my entire life! All the singers are happy today, all smiling a lot! Vocally, he's really really good! Though, it's turning out a bit boring! This song has really miniature changes in it! The thing that shines is his voice which is really relaxing to be honest! the backing vocalists got on stage now and they're singing the first line while he's improvising. He will get a middle ranking I think! Obviously, with juries it got a good position! (Antoine Farrugia)

Ugh the language is as depressing as the country. He is singing as if there's a lump of vomit in his throat. Boring its like it should be a National anthem. NEXT (Lauren White)

Azerbaijan

Wow!!!!! the choreography is amazing!!! Beautiful song. Azerbaijan always bring great songs to the eurovision. (Brooke)

Farid's Hold Me is up next for Azerbaijan. This is one of the best visual performances ever on the Eurovision. He started shaky again. He's shaking, he's obviously really excited. He was excited in rehearsals so now it's obvious he'll be more excited. This performance is just so high-class! He was a bit off I think after jumping from that box! The long dress is taking on the stage! I don't think it is represetning anything. This is one of the favourites too! Such a difficult final to be hinest today! The most perfect vidual performance I ever seen in the Eurovision history! Will he take the Eurovision back to The Land Of Fire?! Top 10 I think! (Antoine Farrugia)

Looks like the guy that won for Russia years ago. Think the staging is brilliant. But the song doesn't stand out. Whiny!!! (Lauren White)

Greece

Another strange song! The only good thing about is that Alcohol is free! I wouldnt be surprised if it makes in the top 10.. (Brooke)

Koza Mostra and Agathon Iakovidis with thier free alcohol for Greece! This song is so so enjoyable! Whoa! I can't stand sitting down to this! This is beyond perfect to dance with! I'm screaming Hey Hey Hey all the way through! Alcohol Is Free guys! Whoa! I'm really liking this!! Is something wrong with me thinking it will end up with the top 10! I'm liking it way too much! The one thing that concerns me is the old man singing, it isn't that original! Glowing instruments are sure great! I love it, really! This was so needed after two ballads! Well done Greece, once again! (Antoine Farrugia)

I love the greek bouzouki-very infectious. Very like Madness! I actually really like this!! It's fun!! (Lauren White)

Ukraine

Beautiful song, beautiful singer, beautiful dress, beautiful voice. She wore a stunning dress in the rehearsals i dont know why she didnt wear it. But again.. the song is beautiful. Very lion king! Top 5 for me!!! (Brooke)

Ukraine's Zlata Ognevich and the giant, Igor are back with Gravity! Igor sometimes makes me think how difficult it is to live for him! Vocally, I think Zlata is the best singer in the final this year! This song is so reaching the point Zlata wanted it to when she says she wants a fairytale to be created in the arena! It's like effortless for her to sing those high notes! Great job Ukraine! Is this a mixture of Avatar and Disney as many followers of Eurovision are saying? No, it's so original! I like this one too! I hope Ukraine will get another good result for them! (Antoine Farrugia)

Pure Disney. The chorus is very Celine Dion.. That is all! (Lauren White)

Italy

Brilliant song... only coz i understand italian though. The lyrics are beautiful and he's super calm on stage. Love him! (Brooke)

Marco Mengoni and L'Essenziale! Winner for X-Factor Italy and San Remo. Many are making him the winner of the Eurovision too. His voice is way too nice! At least, today he does not seem drunk on stage! I don't like that colour of the suit he's wearing! I'd prefer it if it was a black suit. Why is making his notes longer than normal? Not a really goos thing to do Marco sorry! Although, this song is really good! His voice is so nice! The song is now getting better! He's a really good singer! He was a bit off-pitch now unfortunately! It didn't come out as I expected it to! I think it will be top 3! Great take Italy! (Antoine Farrugia)

He is standing there like a soloist in a young boys choir. I'm bored. Not memorable and not Eurovision. Nice chap (Lauren White)

Norway

I like the feel of this song. Production is very nice. Not my fav though. (Brooke)

Margaret Berger and her feeding of love from Norway. She got through last Thursday and is one of the most favourites to win! WOAH! Excellent intro! Ok, I just got back to reality! Her voice is really good but all that white is really bothering my eyes. Her complexion is already too white and that dress doesn't help at all! No, don't dance please!! She was off too! I don't find it that much interesting to be honest! The bridge is the nice thing of the song for me! It is way too simple and always the same! Though, it is one of the favourites to win! Will Margaret take the Eurovision to Norway after Alexander?! Top 7 for me! (Antoine Farrugia)

Great modern pop song. Very Robyn. Its original and dark, i like it! Gorgeous looking! (Lauren White)

Georgia

Such a strong melody. The chorus makes me sigh. Beautiful. Very old school though including the dress etc. (Brooke)

Waterfall from Nodi & Sophie for Georgia. This is a song I quite used to like but since last Thursday, it didn't take much on me! He's really good in his solo part in the opening. And she compliments him here! This song is lacking chemistry for me. Either it is an unuasal harmony or she's off! It got better today! Smoke all over the arena! Fire too? No, you just went overboard! She got the right pitch today! Improved a lot since Thursday! Got back my support! I love it! Top 15! Maybe!! (Antoine Farrugia)

lovely ballad. I don't really get the duet thing though like fast forward Sonny and Cher.  Nice harmonies. Not my thing. Don't think it will do well! (Lauren White)

Ireland

John Travolta on stage. Nice song. (Brooke)

Ireland to end the day! Only Love Survives and Ryan Dolan! He got through last Tuesday! Ireland has such a great hsitory in Eurovision with seven nikes!  The drummers appear first! His voice is not one of my favourites to be honest, I find it rather nasal or an undeveloped voice! The drummers are the thing that matters the most it seems in this act! I don't like the backing vocalists voices! It is growing on me! Still, his voice is annoying! I quite like the song though! I think this will be a great summer hit this year along with other ESC songs! I don't know where to put this on a scoreboard! Though, goodluck! (Antoine Farrugia)

I lost to Ryan, but if ya can't beat them join them!! Best of luck Ryan and co!! Go Ireland! (Lauren White)

The Show (Part 2)

And Jean Paul Gaultier designed all the dresses for Petra Mede and he is in the audience Petra is repeating the voting system for this year including the application! Europe has the 15 minutes to vote as we go to the first recaps! Loreen is with us, awkwardly looking like a bird from The Netherlands! This is a beautiful performance of 'We Got The Power' her new single! Turned boring for me! And as the song changes, we find Loreen back on the floor like last year! She is held off from the stage hanging in air! Vocally, this is so much better than last year of Euphoria!  She took off the wings and is now wearing a long cape while singing Euphoria! Vocals are so strong! That was one hell of a performance by Loreen! Great job! Another recap while we have four more minutes to vote! You can notice how stiff this competition is this year! Petra Mede changed clothes for closing the lines! Europe stop voting now! That was a history of Eurovision is hort and now we go back to Petra Mede introducing us to Eric Saade in the greenroom! Eric who took part in 2011 with Popular for Sweden! Eric lead us to Jan Ola Sand!

In years gone by, the running order of the voting process was scheduled in the same manner in which the performances took place but nevertheless, the system was altered a couple of years back when the juries gained their voting priveledges back, and which now undoubtely decide half of the respective result. The European Broadcasting Union would like to make the best possible showcase for the millions of viewers watching all over the world including; China and Australia and therefore, where possible, changes in the leaderboard will be implemented just to create an exciting feeling for all to enjoy.

Valletta, the capital city of Malta will be the backdrop for the voting this evening with the spokesperson being none other than Emma Hickey, otherwise known as Jeremy's love interest in the music video for Tomorrow, which is the entry representing the country in the international music showcase. The song which is co-written by Dean Muscat and Boris Cezek with vocals provided by Gianluca got through to the final round following an initial qualification phase held on Thursday. Malta was announced as the ninth country following what seemed to a nerve wracking situation. This evening, during the final of the Eurovision Song Contest, Malta will be performing in position number #9.

1. San Marino (John Kennedy O'Connor)
2. Sweden (Yohio)
3. Albania (Andri Xhahu)
4. Netherlands (Cornald Maas)
5. Austria (Kati Bellowitsch)
6. United Kingdom (Scott Mills)
7. Israel (Ofer Nachshon)
8. Serbia (Maja Nikolic)
9. Ukraine (Matias)
10. Hungary (Éva Novodomszky)
11. Romania (Sonia Argint)
12. Moldova (Olivia Furtuna)
13. Azerbaijan (Tamilla Shirinova)
14. Norway (Tooji)
15. Armenia (Andre)
16. Italy (Federica Gentile)
17. Finland (Kristiina Wheeler)
18. Spain (Inés Paz)
19. Belarus (Darya Domracheva)
20. Latvia (Anmary)
21. Bulgaria (Joana Dragneva)
22. Belgium (Barbara Louys)
23. Russia (Alsou)
24. Malta (Emma Hickey)
25. Estonia (Rolf Roosalu)
26. Germany (Lena)
27. Iceland (Maria Sigrun Hilmarsdottir)
28. France (Marine Vignes)
29. Greece (Andriana Magania)
30. Ireland (Nicky Byrne)
31. Denmark (Sofie Lassen-Kalhke)
32. Montenegro (Ivana Sebek)
33. Slovenia (Andrea F)
34. Georgia (Liza Tsiklauri)
35. F.Y.R. Macedonia (Dimitar Atanasovski)
36. Cyprus (Loukas Hamatsos)
37. Croatia (Uršula Tolj)
38. Switzerland (Mélanie Freymond)
39. Lithuania (Ignas Krupavicius)

All of the participating countries in this years' Eurovision Song Contest will be casting their votes, half of them as decided by a panel of professional experts and the other half by the million of people watching in their homes. As one could denote from the list above, there are a number of well known individuals who will be reading out the points of their country, amongst them being; Tooji (Norway), Anmary (Latvia), Lena (Germany), Alsou (Russia) and of course, the most famous one being Nicky Bryne of the former group, Westlife for Ireland. Speculation is running high that Italy did extremely well with the juries last night as opposed to Denmark who might have not scored one of the top results. This is yet to be seen. Stay tuned to escflashmalta.com for more of the latest news.

Source: eurovision.tv

Good Evening! Malmo, Sweden is playing host to this years' edition of the Eurovision Song Contest and in the past couple of days, thirty-three (33) participating nations had to compete for twenty (20) elite spots in the final round of the prestigious competition leaving thirteen (13) in the lurch. This evening is relatively important considering that juries in all of the participating countries will be selecting their favourites and of course, awarding half of the points which will be allocated tomorrow. It is important to denote that Malta will be competing in the final round for the second consecutive year after the qualification of Gianluca and his entry Tomorrow from the second semi-final which took place last night. We wish him the very best of luck this evening.

escflashmalta.com thanks to Juergen Boernig, the Head of Press is currently also processing a couple of video interviews with artists who will be representing their country at the Eurovision Song Contest. As a matter of fact, stay tuned on our YouTube Page for all of the latest. In the meantime, you may also have a look at our photo gallery whilst staying up to date through both our pages on Facebook and Twitter. Coverage of the Final of the Eurovision Song Contest will be led by Antoine Farrugia, Senior Editor for escflashmalta.com alongside special guests; Lauren White who has most recently signed a Publishing Deal with Universal Music Group and Brooke, winner of the Best Solo Artist at the Malta Music Awards earlier this year. 

The Show (Part 1)

SVT, host broadcaster of this years' Eurovision Song Contest should be commended on such an astonishing production and the acts selected for the opening and the interval have provided great entertainment. It's like the Olympics as the bridge is lowered and all of the finalists are in a procession like poise promoting themselves prior to the start of the actual show. Once more, Petra Mede is clad in an original Jean Paul Gaultier creation and despite not being black as worn last night, it seems to be pretty pink!

France

Amandine Bourgeois is clad in a beautiful black dress which seems to have come out of the 1920s era when charleston had been popular. The backdrop is stunning and has to be one of the most elaborate to be honest with graphic designs in the form of a wallpaper but lit within the beat. Amandine is joined on stage by two female backing vocalists and this has a lot of sass and thus coming across beautifully on screen. This has to be an intriguing openinng number and whilst, it would not have been my choice to open, it definitely gets the attention of many. She throws the microphone stand to the floor with anger. Stunning vocals, will earn a lot of points from the jury for being artistic. 

Lithuania

'I have to tell you something', how are you even competing in the final? Andrius Pojavis is lacking charm but nevertheless, managed to turn it on during the semi-final performance. This is a generic pop track which had managed to get my attention during the national final but has literally wilted. Andrius is wearing the same outfit from the semi-finals and is also joined on stage by the same team of backing vocalists. The backdrop is purple and there is nothing really wrong with this except that it is pretty boring. This is definitely a candidate for last year for singing number #2 and for being dull!

Moldova

Pasha Parfeni, the representative for Moldova last year is back on stage playing the piano and dancers are spread out across the stage for what is a pretty elaborate choreography. The staging is kept dark but nevertheless is lit up as the night sky appears. Aliona Moon is terrified this evening but nevertheless, it is defnitely not showing in the vocals. This is one of the songs which has a gimmick through the dress which changes colour and unites with the backdrop at times. Mid-way through the song and then throughout the bridge, Aliona rises to the higher point of the stage and this looks astonishing. Whoa! Impressive, I think that this will be receiving a lot of points tonight!

Finland

Krista Siegfrids is back on the stage of the Eurovision Song Contest and is performing her very own Las Vegas number which features a wedding which has to be re-thought. This track has been the centre of a controversy due to the fact that the lead vocalist ends up kissing one of the backing dancers. As a matter of fact, there are both backing dancers and backing vocalists on stage, clad as groomsmen and bridesmaids respectively. This is coming across beautifully on screen and Krista is definitely a good vocalist. Well, this is going to pick up tele-votes but I am not too sure about jury votes!

Spain

Ohh! Despite wearing black in the opening number held on the bridge earlier this evening, she is now clad in a flowing yellow dress. The beginning of the song on the flute is just wonderful and as we turn to the main stage, there is Raquel joined by the boys of ESDM and she is barefoot performing the song in the best possible way. I must say that this is an absolutely wonderful song but for some reason this presentation is just not working at all and the vocals are rather disappointing. I had been saying that this will not be competing for one of the last couple of spots but unfortunately, I have to say otherwise. I am not sure this will be picking up a lot of jury votes but it do a France 2012. 

Belgium

Roberto Bellarosa was one of the surprise qualifiers in the first semi-final and it seems that being clad in a suit and seen by millions of people has helped the artist garner recognition. Roberto is really performing well this evening for some reason and that could be just because the semi-final performance is out of the way. He is moving across the stage and is showing stage presence. The backdrop is featuring the title of the song and it has to be said that even I am thumping along to this one despite not thinking it would make it out of the semi-final stage. Roberto will be picking up a couple of points tonight but he will not be setting the scoreboard on fire.

Estonia

This has to be one of the most wonderful ballads competing in this years' edition of the Eurovision Song Contest with Birgit wearing the same white gown she was in the semi-final. She is a brilliant vocalist and has always a stunning repertoire of notes. Despite being in Estonia, it manages to capture the essence of many and this should easily do well. Whilst it might not be setting the tele-votes on fire, it should pick up a lot of votes this evening. I am predicting a mid-table result for this one. Well done to Birgit! Sometimes, I am left speechless and this is definitely one of those times!

Belarus

Following Estonia, Belarus just sounds terrible to be honest. Alyona Lanskaya walks out of the disco ball wearing a sparkling silvery dress. She is joined on stage by two dancers and three backing vocalists and whilst this might not be the typical jury favourite, it will definitely pick up some votes to finish mid-table. The vocals this evening are quite disappointing though and it seems that she is very nervous. Nevertheless, due to the strategic positioning of Belarus, this could manage to get Paelinck best result. Alyona Lanskaya needed to nail it this evening and I do not think she did. 

Malta

Gianluca takes to the stage in his white shirt, bright orange trousers and black waistcoat. He is joined on stage by two female backing vocalists, a drummer, a ukelele player, and a guitarist. This came through the second semi-final last night after being announced ninth. The vocals this evening are easily resembling the ones of last night. The backdrop featuring the lyrics of the song is definitely not in the way and aids the performance getting the public to sing a long. The public are very much engaged in this performance and this is coming across really well. He was somewhat nervous at some points but nevertheless, worked through them brilliantly! Malta should at least get a mid-table result.

Russia

Pink! but nevertheless, not anywhere close to the dress worn by the hostess because this is lighter and extremely salmon like. She is joined on stage by four backing vocalists and the staging has not changed a bit noting that there are balls on the stage and at the end of the performance is also seemingly throwing some balls into the audience. Dina Garipova is one of the most brilliant vocalists in the competition but I cannot believe I am saying this but she has just missed the high note and the juries will definitely penalise it for that. It might have just ruined her chances of victory. 

Germany

Nathalie Horler feeds off the crowd and is definitely pleasing the public. Many people have stated that this track might be too similar to Euphoria but nevertheless, the group Cascada invented this type of music in recent years. She is definitely enjoying this performance and comes down the flight of stairs, takes to the catwalk in stunning fashion. I am definitely not ruling out a return to Germany for next years' edition of the Eurovision Song Contest. Call me a fan, but wow, that was amazing!

Armenia

Eyebrows! That is definitely the focus of this performance. Armenia definitely qualified thanks to the power of the Rock voters or rather, the fans of Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath who co-wrote the song. The performance is nothing out of this world noting that it is just a typical band who are spreading out a message. Armenia did not take part in last years' edition of the Eurovision Song Contest for political reasons but are definitely excited to return in the final. Vocals are on key and are sounding pretty well. Nevertheless, this will do better than expected but won't be in the top ten. 

BREAK

The Netherlands

Anouk, one of the most competent performers in this years' edition of the Eurovision Song Contest takes to the stage for the final having managed to take The Netherlands through for the first time in eight years. She is wearing a dark outfit, the same within the semi-final. Initial reports were that she was supposed to start on the main stage but is giving the satellite stage another go. The lights are still in her eyes unfortunately but she is creating this mystical element by keeping them closed. The vocals are mesmerizing as expected from Anouk and I seriously believe that with a strong jury vote this evening along with a decent tele-vote that it could finish in the top ten. 

Romania

Cezar had to be one of the most intriguing acts to compete in the semi-final stage last night and took Romania through to the final keeping their perfect record in tact despite maybe not settling in with the typical voter at home. The fact that the jury had to vote on vocal prowess, original and an overall performance might have helped him solidify that vote and indeed, this will most likely get a mid-table result due to the juries this evening. Vocally, Cezar is stunning and he is indeed one of the up and coming tenors in his country. The staging is beyond over the top but I will keep to the comments above. 

United Kingdom

In the beginning, Bonnie Tyler had some vocal issues but nevertheless, she is a legend and does pick up after the first minute. This is a feel good country ballad and Bonnie does somewhat still have a vocal prowess that people might have to watch out for. There is a good round of applause in the press centre and the hall in the arena went relatively mad. Believe In Me will not be getting the top ten result that the United Kingdom would like to be honest but I am sure that her fanbase will enjoy this performance and vote for her tomorrow night to give her a mid-table result. 

Sweden

The host country of this years' Eurovision Song Contest has selected a song by virtue of an international panel of judges noting that You was not the choice of the public. Robin Stjernberg is wearing a white outfit and he is joined by several dancers and this choreography is just out of this world and whilst it looks a little bit squashed in the opening rehearsals, it has definitely come across well. The vocals need to be perfect for this performance and wait for it, they definitely are. Sweden will most likely be heading for another top ten result, meaning it would be the third one in a row and a continuation of positive history.

Hungary

Alan Montonaro, who was guest blogging for the Times of Malta absolutely enjoyed this performance last night and Alex is actually enjoying his performance ever so slightly this evening despite not showing it too much. There is no emotion for the performer but nevertheless, the look is very much translating well on screens. I had this as a qualifier last night and it is definitely giving everyone in the hall and the press centre an extremely good feeling. The vocals are fine and the song is just beautiful. Well done Hungary, this could be the best result for quite some time. There is a lot of applause for this one and considering the commercial sales, I would say this is picking up a lot of tele-votes.

Denmark

The pied piper has just started playing the flute and the audience has just gone mad. The crowd is definitely enjoying this performance. Emmelie de Forest is wearing the same white dress which she was wearing within the semi-final and is joined by drummers and backing vocalists. Many people have this down as their winner for this years' edition of the Eurovision Song Contest but I am not too sure it will manage to. The vocals are good this evening and will definitely get a potentially strong vote by the juries but should this win, it will do thanks to the backing of the public. The pyro curtain has just been used towards the end. 

Iceland

Eythor Ingi is one of the best male vocalists in this years' competition and has decided to stay with his black suit for the performance. The staging is kept really dark in order to accompany the mood of the song, which definitely reflects on personal experiences. Mid-way through the song, four male backing vocalists come onto the stage. Eythor Ingi has a stunning vocal range and he is definitely showing the jury this evening that he is more than competent to carry off practically the phone book. Stunning! Iceland deserve to finish in the top ten. This gets a huge reaction in both the press centre and the hall. 

Azerbaijan

Farid Mammadov is one of the worst performers when it comes to nerves but has the best ability in the competition to handle them because his vocals are stunning as always. This will definitely win a lot of points in the staging and originality sections which the juries have to assess this evening. The man in the glass box is managing to keep up this evening as was the case last night whilst the female dancer comes along and adds to the drama. Whilst this is coming in a difficult part of the draw following Denmark and Iceland, this is still going to competing for points and will be taking most of the typical points which Turkey normally gets considering their absence. 

Greece

There is a lot of commotion in the press centre for this performance especially due to the fact that this is following two ballads and a mid-tempo song. Greece are bringing about the only ethnic song in the competition and this is musically stunning. I am not too sure about the choice of lyrics but as soon as you start bopping along, you would lose the lyrics and just love the music. The boys are definitely good looking as been said by many and therefore will be getting that type of vote as well during the final tomorrow night. This is an extremely polished performance. I have no clue how this one will do but it could finish in the top ten.

Ukraine

According to the Betting Odds, this is still the third favourite to win this years' edition of the Eurovision Song Contest and I understand why because Zlata has one of the most powerful female voices in the competition. The initial walk with the giant is just silly though and might have come across as too much of a circus act during the semi-final. Zlata is wearing the cream/white outfit that she was wearing in the semi-final and seems that she will be sticking to this. Whoa! This part of the final is quite difficult and I am somewhat even more convinced that Denmark might not win. 

Italy

Marco Mengoni, the Italian hearthrob who stole the show at Sanremo earlier this year. He is wearing a teal suit as seen in this afternoons' rehearsal video and whilst this might not look great on the same video below, it comes across beautifully on the cameras. This is definitely going to pick up a lot of votes with the juries this evening considering that Sanremo is somewhat riddles with juries. He is definitely trying to play with his vocals and it seems that the performance is far too emotional. The vocals are just stunning and he manages to impress. I am sure that the juries will give this an extremely high position.

Norway

The magnificient Italy is followed by Norway who is represented by Margaret Berger. This is the second favourite for victory and clad in a tight white dress, this performance is far more convincing that the one that she gave in the semi-final in terms of vocals. The camera shots are good but it would have been better if they managed to recreate the feel of the Melodi Grand Prix. Berger is trying to convince the public. She does receive a lot of applause in both the press centre and the audience. It sounded strong tonight and it could derail Denmark. Norway have definitely managed to win over ample support in a couple of days. 

Georgia

Sophie and Nodi take to the stage in one of the final performances of the evening. This is track co-written by Thomas G:son who actually wrote the winning entry last year. They are both clad in formal attire this evening as has been the case throughout all of the rehearsals. The choreography is as cheesy as the song to be honest. The vocals are good or rather better than they were in the semi-finals but I believe that nerves have been getting the best of her mostly. Georgia will not be finishing in the top five though as previously expected. Massive applause in the arena for this one though. 

Ireland

Fire! Stunning end to this years' edition of the Eurovision Song Contest. I might not have been the biggest fan of Ireland when it was chosen to represent the nation. Ryan Dolan is still clad in casual clothing and the rest of his team is going about the shirtless look apart from the female backing vocalists. Ryan is a good vocalist but this is not the best rehearsal that he has had and will definitely suffer with the juries. Nevertheless, following the ballad that comes forward from Georgia, I would not expect this to do badly and whilst it would not be troubling the top ten, a mid-table position is very much possible. This is applauded well in the press centre. 

The Show (Part 2)

Petra Mede, our funny hostess for this years' edition of the Eurovision Song Contest is back on stage with the same dire outfit she started out with and says that the competition is actually over but time to turn to the public at home who will be decidnig half of the vote. A recap of the performances is currently being shown on screen and remember that Malta will be singing in position number #9. That's it from us this evening as we focus on the actual final tomorrow night. I have a sneaky feeling that the jury vote will be going towards Italy and The Netherlands. The interval act which will not be shown on Television Malta will include Carola and Sarah Dawn Finer.

In recent years, the Eurovision Song Contest has been regaining prestige with music labels across the continent due to the fact that exposure is guaranteed especially for those who make it through to the final and therefore get to be seen by millions of people across the world. Malta, for the second consecutive year will be participating tomorrow evening with all of the success definitely merited to Anton Attard, Head of Delegation for Malta who has redesigned the selection procedure from the initial stages in order to attract the foreign whilst keeping the product genuine and local. 

Tomorrow, co-written by Boris Cezek and Dean Muscat with vocals provided by Gianluca is a track which has a happy go lucky feeling and the charm and grace of the lead vocalist has been essential towards the success of the semi-final last night. Commercial success is not easy to achieve and whilst This is the Night did managed to have such positive acclaim, it was only after the final rather than the semi-final. Tomorrow has entered the iTunes Charts in several countries, with the most predominant though being The Netherlands where he peaked at #55 as well as Norway where he managed to climb to number #80 apart from managing positions #2 and #3 in Malta. Stay tuned to escflashmalta.com for amore of the latest news as soon as it becomes available. 

Source: esctracker

escflashmalta.com has somewhat been focusing on the participation of Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest in the past couple of days as expected but nevertheless, we are proud to announce the exclusive launch of a brand new single entitled Superhero by Jean Claude Vancell. 'Quirky, subdued and reserved', the track will be hitting the radio stations in the next couple of days as Jean Claude Vancell continues to prepare for a couple of new releases in 2013. The message of the song is rather intriguing as it looks at the unspoken thoughts of a stalker, and a new found obsession for the stalker's love interest narrated by Vancell.

The track is also a stepping stone for Jean Claude, marking the launch of his first solo music video. With a self-written storyline, artistic direction by Monica Farrugia and photographic direction by Alistair Farrugia, the video is a small journey into the stalker's world. The video also features Michelle Mifsud. Jean Claude's summer will be as busy as ever as he takes the stage as one of the singers of Akustika's summer concert to be held in August, together with solo appearances and new releases. For more information about the release of the single, we encourage you to visit the official website of Jean Claude Vancell whilst the single can also be downloaded for free only for a limited period through this website. Stay tuned to escflashmalta.com for more news about local artists, even those who are part of the editorial team.

Source: Press Release