Eurovision 2021 Reviews – Iceland

Iceland is the only Nordic country left yet to win Eurovision, and after being the hot favourites during the 2020 season, it was unfortunate that they missed out on the chance of following through and scoring their first win. Viral sensation Daði og Gagnamagnið return to the contest this year with the song 10 Years, but will Iceland finally get their winning moment? 

Anita (Eurovision Union) 

Song and Vocals

I have been adamant in saying that Iceland would have won the 2020 contest had it gone ahead. Fronted by Daði Freyr, Daði og Gagnamagnið are easily one of the most inspiring, uplifting and fun groups we have seen in the Eurovision world. Add charm and personality, and of course an incredible song, and you have a winner right there. Think About Things was the entire package. How would they be able to return with a song and package better than that? 

In my eyes, not only has the group returned with a song just as good as last year, but I think they have actually outdone themselves. Last year the subject of his song was his daughter, and this year, his wife. The family man is not only wholesome, but an incredibly talented artist and musician. The song opens with strings, which sets a different tone to last year’s entry. In true form, however, the song kicks into the electronic beat which is just as catchy as last year. Daði is a master in melodies, specifically, fitting unique lyrics into catchy melodies. Daði’s music style is so fascinating, I can’t remember the last time I was bored. 

The chorus in the bridge is another inspired break from the electronic beat, and having fans submit their vocals for the chorus was a great way to build hype and inclusion into the project. We know that Daði can absolutely deliver this song on stage, and both he and the group add so much charisma. What’s so exciting about this is that it’s such a well thought out package. From his debut entry in the national final back in 2017 to now, you can see how the group has grown through each of the three entries. The ‘brand’ has been the same throughout, but each time is elevated to new heights. There is a clear identity here, and I really think that will aid in achieving a high result at the contest this year. Dare I say, win? 

Performance and Act

One thing is certain, and that’s knowing that we will get an extremely slick performance from the group. Even though it will be slick and considered, it will never become disingenuous. The group brings so much authenticity and pure joy to their performances, and it will surely be rewarded. Their brand will certainly be on display, and we will see some signature dance moves on stage. I can’t wait to see it! 

Conclusions

I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I actually think Iceland is being heavily underrated this year. The group had all the elements to win in 2020, and the same goes this year. The song is incredible, the stage show we are bound to get will be incredible, and even if they don’t win, a Top 10 finish is almost certain. I hope Iceland can finally take home the trophy this year. 

Rating 

10/10

Dennis (ESCDaily)

Song and Vocals

Disco is coming back with Daði from Iceland. Being one of the big favourites in 2020, it’s a tough job to make back with something just as good the next year. I think the Icelandic team did a good job in this. It’s not as fresh and new as was the case in 2020, but I try to remember that a lot of people will not even know what they were planning to do last year. When I judge this song on its merits, it is still a fresh bundle of fun and after a couple of listens it’s impossible to get the song out of your head again.

Performance and Act

This will of course be so much fun. In their video presentation, we already saw Daði og Gagnamagnið will stick to what they do best. All dressed alike, with miniature heads of themselves on their sweaters. Funky dance move, all slick together, and interesting ‘music instruments’. Watching Daði and his team perform is just a sheer joy to the eye. Of course, this will stand out in the field of songs in 2021. 

Conclusions

It took me a couple of times to get used to the new Icelandic entry. Of course, in May, people will not have the chance to listen to the song again. Daði og Gagnamagnið need to make an instant impact. I think they have the winner’s appearance and appeal to do this. Winning Eurovision is not something that can easily be done, but I believe many people are writing off Iceland as a candidate (especially the bookmakers) a little too soon. Not the main candidate for the win, but certainly a candidate.

Rating

9/10

Additional Scores from Eurovision Union and ESCDaily editors: 

Steef:: 6.5/10

Joshua: 8.5/10

Selim: 5/10

Heath: 10/10

Kaitlin: 10/10

Average Score:  8.4/10

What do you think of 10 Years? Follow our Eurovision 2021 reviews here.. You can support your favourite acts in our Eurovision 2021 poll, which you can find here.