Ok, so I\u2019m doing things differently this year. In the absence of the backstage scoop and having seen none of the rehearsals, this first review is based on my impression of the songs based on what the songs sound like. I have tried to avoid some of the visuals from the music videos, as many this year are really distracting, and the visuals make the songs sound worse than they actually are. So, here goes\u2026<\/p>\n
BTW, you can watch the first semi-final of ESC2017 on Tuesday 9 May, on BBC4 at 8.00pm in the UK, or streamed online via www.eurovision.tv<\/a><\/p>\n Here we go then\u2026 and it couldn’t be a more perfect start, for me…<\/p>\n The first song for ESC2017 is from Sweden\u2019s Robin Bengtsson, with the suitably (literally \u2013 they perform in suits) fabulous \u201cI Can\u2019t Go On\u201d. A cracking pop song, with slick moves and played well to the camera. A certainty to get through to the final. At the Melodifestivalen final back in March it was the international jury vote that guaranteed victory, and a place on the Eurovision stage. Surely a good sign. And he is, indeed, freakin\u2019 beautiful, which helps. And you will know which word freakin\u2019 has replaced since the original performance at Melodifestivalen\u2026 * ooh, the drama *\u2026<\/p>\n\n