EUROVISION 2019 REVIEW: RUSSIA - Sergey Lazarev - Scream

Time for another ESC 2019 review!

Today we turn to Russia, one of the contest's most talked about countries. Sergey Lazarev returns for the country this year with 'Scream'.

Here are my thoughts:

What I Like: It feels like Russia sending Sergey once again after their first NQ last year is a safety blanket for the country. Knowing that Russia are sending Sergey again secures a professional live performance and vocal that will wow everyone at Eurovision regardless of their thoughts on the song, so its nice to see that Sergey agreed to take part again and give us his gift. I also like that he has went with something completely different to last time and is trying out something new with 'Scream'.

The instrumental stands alone really well and hooks you into the drama and theatrics of the whole number. When that builds to the climax at the end, where Sergey belts out the 'They Scream' refrain, it longs for a fantastic performance in Tel Aviv, with backing singers adding operatic backing vocals to add that extra element of drama and power that the song demands. I don't believe there is such a thing as overperforming but I do believe if there was one, it would be Sergey in this music video. I like how Russia think with a more is more attitude in the contest and this follows that theme.

What I Don't Like: Now, in a ballad-heavy year such as this one Russia will sadly get compared to other ballads we have by Eurovision fans and casual viewers alike. Although I believe 'Scream' is the best male power-ballad we have this year, the theatrical element to the entry does put me off from liking it more personally, as I hate theatre with a burning passion and Sergey does overperform with that tone at times and I think its difficult to perform in a theatrical way without coming across as insincere. For this reason 'Scream' is a one-off song for me. Its a song I'll enjoy when I have all the elements in May, but its not a song that I would listen to of my own accord because its not what I personally listen to, but Eurovision entries shouldn't be made to listen to on your Spotify over and over again but to stand out on the night after just one listen and one incredible whole package, which is what Russia are going to give us anyway, so why get pressed about it when you know that's what Russia are gonna give us? Anyway...

Its also important to look at other ballads that surround this song. Performing directly before Albania can make 'Scream' seem a little inauthentic, and the fragility and raw emotion of The Netherlands a few songs after can make this feel a little formulaic in comparison. This is something they need to think about to stand out in their own way and play to their own audience once we get to Tel Aviv, but I know that the Russian delegation are smart and they will have their own powerful live performance planned.

Prediction: We'd be stupid to question whether this is a qualifier or not. This is definitely going to be in the final. Top 10 in the final would also be a good shout I'd say, but I do not see this as a winner at the moment.

Final Score: 7/10

Summary: A powerful song in the hands of a more than competent performer that is going to meet expectations in May, i have no doubts. It may not be your thing but it will be the thing of many others on the night and I have a feeling the bookies are not too far off.

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