Kazakhstan is a Junior Eurovision powerhouse. Within three years of participation, the nation finished in 2nd place two years in a row. Hoping to continue the trend is Alinur & Beknur who will perform Ertegı älemı (Fairy World).
Anita:
Song + Vocals
Kazakhstan certainly delivered the national final drama this year, with both Alinur and Beknur finishing in first place. The jury was delegated the duty of breaking the tie and selecting the artist that would head to Paris, however they could not make the decision. As a result, the artists joined forces to perform what was Alinur’s competing entry.
The song itself fits within the realm of what we expect from Kazakhstan. It’s another big ballad, similar to the previous two entries that achieved second place. As someone who follows the contest, that predictability dampens my feelings towards this song. Realistically, the majority of the voting audience and jury won’t take previous entries into account, and will only judge these three minutes.
The revamp certainly helped to elevate the song, and Alinur’s vocals really do shine, especially during the choruses. The addition of Beknur doesn’t feel out of place, considering he was a late and unexpected addition to the song. It was also a nice addition to have his part in French.
Performance + Act
Kazakhstan put a lot of effort into their staging at Junior Eurovision, and I don’t think this year will be any different. I expect a high level from the nation, especially after last year. I think it will be an immense step up from the national selection, as it should be. It will be interesting to see whether Alinur will hold the spotlight alone until Beknur’s portion of the song, or whether they will be together on stage for the entire three minutes.
Conclusions
This is a nice song, but it’s not revolutionary nor particularly contemporary. With the right staging and vocal performance, this has the potential to do well, but I don’t think it will reach the heights of the previous two entries.
Rating
6/10
Dennis:
Song + Vocals
Kazakhstan comes up with an interesting and mystique song again, with impactful orchestration. Alinur won several child competitions before and that shows from his vocal performance. Alongside him is Beknur, a child with visible handicaps. Much respect for him being there on stage in Paris.
Performance + Act
The fact that Beknur is there on stage gives the act just that bit of extra sympathy and impact, combined with the strong vocals of Alinur. With smoke curtains and perhaps a dancer in the act, I can see this making a big visual impact, more than the composition by itself could do.
Conclusions
Will this mystique song give Kazakhstan another shot at a top spot, after two second place finishes in a row? The composition is not very refreshing and unique, but the total package could make a big impact on the afternoon of the contest.
Rating
7/10
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