JERUSALEM, ISRAEL – For the second year in a row, Israel has chosen interactive singing competition “HaKokhav HaBa” (The next star) as the selection show for Eurovision. Though the programme was not a success (not to say a failure) abroad, HaKokhav HaBa has proven to be quite popular in its homeland. This year, the show was rebranded “HaKokhav HaBa L’Eirovizion” (The next star for Eurovision) in order to focus on the selection process. Unlike 2015, this season viewers will select the artist as well as the song. It has been a veeeery long process since December 5th, and, after 14 shows, the final will take place next Thursday, live from Neve Ilan. 4 acts will compete on the big night, in order to succeed Golden Boy Nadav Guedj on Eurovision stage.
Gil Adash – Follow The Sun: Gil is a great singer, for sure, given her performances, but her song is just…weird. It starts like a rather classical tune and tries to turn into a more up-tempo entry. I would call it a bit messy to be honest, and I’m not sure the tune goes anywhere.
Ella Daniel – Somebody Out There: Wow, the girl just sounds like Adele, in a more up-tempo version. “Somebody Out There” definitely is a great song, building up from a melodic tune to a dance track. It reminds me a bit of Serbian Bojana last year, though this song is way better. We can trust Ella and here unique personality to give a great show on the big night.
Hovi Star – Made of stars: What a voice! Hovi Star is powerful and sweet at the same time, and that suits the song very well since it is pop and classical at the same time. That could give a good performance, but, I must say that this act could not be memorable in an international competition. A bit too dramatic and repetitive.
Nofar Salman – Made Of Stars: No, I’m not mistyping, Nofar will perform the same song as Hovi, but a different version of it. Let’s just say, a much more oriental version, though modern at the same time. I do prefer this pop ethnic version, even though it remains repetitive and a little too dramatic for my taste.
To conclude, I must say that the long selection was worth the waiting, since Israeli viewers have to choose from 4 great performers and 4 rather good songs. But, Ella Daniel should be considered a hot favourite with her modern and powerful entry. She’s already on my playlist!
