If you feel as though you’ve already heard of Icelandic artist Klemens Hannigan then it might be from his work as a member of internationally renowned outfit HATARI.
Hannigan’s melodic new single ‘Never Loved Someone So Much’ is a beautifully intense, honest and vulnrable piece of music that fuses lo-fi pop with hints of indie and trip hop.
The track is taken from Hannigan’s forthcoming album, which will be produced alongside Leifur Björns from noted Icelandic rock group Low Roar, and also in collaboration with British electronica icon Howie B.
It’s the start of Eurovision week (i.e. the world’s biggest music show), and for someone who follows the show for the fun rather than the music, this year I’ve been surprised by the number of countries submitting songs that could easily be on radio playlists.
Here’s some which have stood out to me – and as it happens, these are the main favourites to win…. Maybe Eurovision is starting to push for more current sounds again?
Duncan Lawrence – Netherlands (intense, minimal ballad with haunting elements).
Mahmood – Italy (my personal favourite this year from a talent who was featured in the past, this is punchy pop with angst).
Katerine Duska – Greece (the most beautifully melodic indie pop, along the lines of Florence & The Machine with a distinctive vocal).
Conan Osiris – Portugal (the most conceptual and idiosyncratic song this year, this feels better suited to an art installation at Tate Modern than Eurovision).
Michela – Malta (if Dua Lipa had a go at Eurovision, this would absolutely be it).
Hatari – Iceland (this has caused the biggest reaction this year- nothing is off limits with this group… It’s a bold electro/ goth/ synth sound that makes an impact from the start)
John Lundvik – Sweden (gospel pop with a mildly euphoric edge).
Luca Hänni – Switzerland (this is your standard bubblegum pop with big beats and catchy hooks).
And to be honest there’s a few more, but head on over to Eurovision’s website to check them out.
The Semi Final’s are on Tuesday 14th and Thursday 16th May, with the Grand Final on Saturday 18th May. It’s broadcast across most countries globally, so check it out!
