The 2015 “Expert” Panel – LATVIA

Love Injected (Eurovision 2015 – Latvia)

The ESC United “Expert” Panel is back once again reviewing all Eurovision songs and rank them accordingly.

You are probably asking yourself on how we pick our panel and the criteria. We looked at people from all walks of life to bring together a unique group of panelists with a wide range in taste. They all bring different skills and tastes to the table so who are they?

Anselm – The Alternative Guy
Arie – The Professional Musician
Daniel – The Noob
Katja – The Schlager Queen
Mike – The Smart One
Olivia – The Journalist

You can read more about them HERE

Disclaimer: While we picked, what we perceived individuals with a wide range in taste, it is subjective to a certain degree so just enjoy their thoughts and if you don’t agree, feel free to post your comments below.

It’s been a rough few years for Latvia, at least in Eurovision terms. The last time they saw the Finals was in 2008 but there is hope with Aminata. Did the Panel fall for Love Injected?

Anselm – The Alternative Guy
Finally time for my absolute favourite of the year! This is just excellent on many levels. “Love Injected” is one of the few songs this year I could imagine coming across in the “real” music world. It’s fresh, powerful and mesmerising at the same time. I love how it goes from a very minimalistic approach in the verses to a full-on explosion during the chorus. Aminata’s vocals are totally on point as well. It would be a travesty if Latvia doesn’t get a decent result with this!
Points: 10/10

Katja – The Schlager Queen
yet another “riot” ballad and I’m starting to get bored. Because really – it’s nothing outstanding here. Yes, I admit it’s not my cup of tea at all, but surely the viewers should notice? I mean Aminata is a competent live singer and I like that Latvians are taking the contest a bit more seriously, but – this is dull. Sorry.
Points: 5/10

Mike – The Smart Guy
I didn’t realize Latvia hadn’t made the finals since 2008.  This song might, although having a woman of color as the only visible singer on stage is a gamble for Eurovision voters, especially in a country that doesn’t have a lot of people of color.  This is a strong and edgy song.  It does highlight the female lead performer’s voice quite well.  It is a 21st Century song and has appropriate accompaniment and back up singers.  I did like the octave contrast at times.   The refrain is catchy enough without being banal.
Points: 7/10

Olivia – The Journalist
Ohh this is refreshing. It has a definite Loreen quality. It’s understated, and has alot of room to breath. I really enjoy the simplicty of the production. The song is almost stripped bare from any melodic distractions. However, the chorus is just a bit…grating. For me that moment is a missed opportunity, as the rest of the song is strong, and edgy. So in all, very mixed feelings. If staging is handled creatively – it could be special. And i’m sure Aminata’s large vocals will impress. But for now – im yet to be convinced.
Points: 7/10

Arie – The Professional Musician
I do…Not care…For this…Dis-jointed………Song.  I’ll give it this:  they’re not playing it safe.  I might even bond with it’s more melodic chorus if it was not screeched with a muscle and a prayer by it’s soloist, Animata.  Lower the key, or better yet, get a better singer.  Oh, and while you’re at it, find a better song.  Maybe one that’s not so frickin’ artsy just for artsy’s sake.  It’s certainly not my cup of tea, but it’s not a punch in the nuts either.  I’ll give it a 3 for being original, fighting my better instinct.
Points: 3/10

Daniel – The Noob
First I was wondering if Latvia usually sends strange songs to Eurovision. The verse have a really particular sound to it and I like particular songs. You should have seen my eyes when the chorus started. My eyes were rarely as wide opened as it was at that moment and I gaped at the screen of my laptop. How awesome is Aminata’s voice and how shining is her talent?  Latvia will make it really far in Vienna! Why do I have so many favorites for the ESC? Is it ordinary? I don’t know but Latvia made it on my list. I am sure there will be many haters but I love this one.
Points: 10/10

Overall: 42 Points

An entry with two 10 pointers, that’s quite impressive. Unfortunately the song overall seems a bit more polarizing than others and it wasn’t enough to top the ranking. Aminata just finishes outside the top 10 with 42 points.

Do you think that the panel got this right?!? Share your thoughts below and join the convo on our Forum. See yah soon!