This year marks the second participation of Germany at Junior Eurovision. The nation debuted in 2020, however unfortunately finished in last place. The only way is up, however what will Pauline achieve with her song ‘Imagine Us’?
Anita:
Song + Vocals
Based on their initial version of the song, I would have said that Germany was destined for another last place finish. However, I will say that the revamp really has done wonders for this track. In the initial version, the song felt very two dimensional, however the revamp has given life to the composition. The choruses have much more impact now, and there is a better build over the three minutes.
We know from the national selection that Pauline can confidently perform this track live. The only uncertain part is the bridge and the final note. With a backing vocal heavy backing track, she will be supported more than in the national selection.
Performance + Act
Pauline has a lot of confidence on stage, and she is constantly moving. It is safe to say that this won’t be a static performance. Rather than just her natural movements, I hope that there is some structured choreography, similar to the music video. Dancers on stage will work well with this performance, and I hope the team can create that fun and uplifting atmosphere through elements such as backing visuals, camerawork and lighting.
Conclusions
With all things considered, I still don’t see Germany as a strong contender this year. Rather, I could see the nation finishing somewhere along the halfway mark. The revamp certainly improved the song, but I still don’t think it has enough going for it.
Rating
6.5/10
Dennis:
Song + Vocals
Germany revamped their song and that made it much more accessible when compared to the first version of their entry. It’s a positive theme with the potential to include the crowd at the venue at the bridge. It’s uplifting in lyrics and orchestration, but also gets repetitive in the last minute of the song, where it could have used something extra.
Performance + Act
Pauline has a natural appearance. She doesn’t come over as a natural born performer to me, but at Junior Eurovision this can be a big pro as well, because it gives other kids the chance to connect and level with her. And the adults watching will also have the feeling that this is just a kid doing what she loves to do and having the time of her life whilst performing.
Conclusions
I had big doubts whether Germany would be able to escape from the bottom of the pack in 2021, but their revamp has fixed a lot for me. It’s still a guess whether people will pick up Pauline’s natural performance and reward it, or ‘punish’ it in a contest with a lot of kids performing like they are already true adult performers.
Rating
6.5/10
If you support Germany at Junior Eurovision this year, vote in our Poll here.