Ten finalists have been revealed for “Supernova,” Latvia’s national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest, and will compete next week for the chance to represent the country at the international competition in Vienna. The second round of “Supernova” auditions delivered some surprises along the way.
Although the second semi-final may have featured a slightly less competitive lineup, the artists who advanced are still poised to make a strong showing. Leading the pack is Atvara with “Ēnā,” who began gaining momentum even before taking the stage with a touching personal story that resonated with voters – and it wouldn’t be a surprise if Atvara receives the highest combined score from the jury and audience.
Another standout is Miks Galvanovskis with “Cruel Angel,” who delivered a truly rock-infused performance (though perhaps a bit over the top), nearly shaking the foundations of the Riga Film Studio. Fans are hoping his signature mustache survived the performance! Subjective praise also goes to Krisy (Kristiāna Skrudupa) and her song “Take It,” whose advancement to the final is considered one of the biggest surprises of the competition, bringing a fresh energy from the hip-hop scene.
“Supernova” will also feature Robert Ox, also known as Roberts Memmēns – an experienced producer, member of the group “Framest,” and a nearly two-meter-tall artist who previously participated in Eurovision with “Citiem Zēniem.” He likely received support from delivery services, as “Ravin’ At The Taj Mahal” may appeal to their sensibilities. Legzdina and “Ribbon” secured a spot in the final thanks to the jury’s decision – a quality track, though it may not have garnered significant audience support.
As for those who didn’t make the cut, the biggest surprise may be the elimination of Edvards Strazdiņš, a rising star in country music supported by Guntars Račs (with the song “I Ain’t Got The Guts”) – though Guntars’ other protégé, Kristīne Megija with “Insanity,” also didn’t advance. Experience didn’t help the group “Papīra lidmašīnas” (“You’re My Saviour”), while Vēstnieks (Macata junior) with “Vai tas ir kāds brīnums?” was generally considered lackluster. Jānis Rugājs (“Smoke”), previously hailed as a sensation on “X Faktors,” also underperformed, and while Paula Dundere’s “Dejot” could still find a place on radio stations, it didn’t quite make the final. From those eliminated, Nolark faced the biggest disappointment – a questionable stage image and pseudonym, but an compelling performance and a memorable song (“Different Places”).
Atvara, Miks Galvanovskis, Robert Ox, Legzdina, and Krisy will join Emīlija, “Kautkaili,” Tikasha Sakama (Nansija Garkalne), “Elpo,” and the duo “De Mantra,” who qualified from the first semi-final. The final will air on February 14 at 9:10 PM on LTV1 and REplay.lv, and will also be available on LSM.lv and Latvijas Radio 5.
