EUROVISION 2019 REVIEW: MALTA - Michela - Chameleon

Let's do another review!

This time we focus on Malta. After (rightfully) winning Maltese X Factor, Michela Pace will represent Malta with 'Chameleon'.

Here are my thoughts:

What I Like: Malta really haven't disappointed this year. Michela is an incredible vocalist, as we heard in Maltese X Factor, and they did her right giving her a song that demands a powerful vocal. Not to mention, this is the pop banger we needed this year! There really aren't enough female bangers for my liking, and Malta stands out as the only one giving me this in the second semi. That anthemic pre-chorus, which feels almost tribal and communal, leads into a non-linear drop for the first two choruses what really catches you off guard, but in a great way. It adds that extra level of sass and grit that the song requires to really stand out as a contender. Also, that music video is BUDGET! Some of those shots were breathtaking, other delegations take note of how Malta do it when it comes to visuals!

What I Don't Like: So there is a lot I love, but there is a lot I'm concerned about as well unfortunately. 'Chameleon' can be considered fast food music, and it does maybe slightly lack that personal touch I like to hear in entries. I also am concerned about this live, if performed badly that drop is going to come across flat and make the performance seem dead, and I haven't seen Michela perform an uptempo number, so I really am worried as to whether they'll be able to pull this off.

Also, a slight niggling issue when watching the music video. WHY ON EARTH have they splattered the lyrics, arguably the worst part of this song, over one of the best music videos of the year? I don't want a lyric video when you're giving me such a stunning visual! What were they thinking.

Prediction: Hmm, this really does rest all on the performance. Its the only female banger which helps, but the drop is a huge risk and come across flat if not performed right, not helped by Malta not usually being able to gain televote support. I’ll say its qualifying for now.

Final Score: 8/10

Summary: A solid pop track with an unconventional drop what really makes you sit up, but the translation from studio to live is concerning me. I hope they can make this work.

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