After an absence from the contest in 2020, Armenia returns – and so does Maléna. The talented young artist was set to represent Armenia last year, however the nation ultimately withdrew. This year she will perform ‘Qami Qami’, and it’s since become one of the hot favourites this year. Is that status justified?
Anita:
Song + Vocals
After last year’s entry from Maléna, there was certainly hype around this year’s entry. Qami Qami certainly lives up to that hype, with the song among the best of this year’s field. In fact, this track is better than what we’ve heard from Armenia in ‘grown up’ Eurovision in recent years. The mature track features ethereal vocals encapsulated in a very radio-friendly track.
The main concern I have about this track in terms of it’s winning potential is the live vocals. The song is very heavily produced – can Maléna pull this off live? A short clip of Maléna rehearsing proves that we should expect strong vocals, but I still have some doubts. Another criticism I’ve seen is that the song is ‘too mature’, however who is to say that this is too mature? The most direct comparison would likely be ‘Superhero’ by Viki, who went on to win Junior Eurovision. Her style and vocals were also mature, however she still managed to storm the results table.
Performance + Act
The aesthetic of the music video is very contemporary and suits the style of song. This type of music video can be easily translated to the Junior Eurovision stage, although there is a limit to how many dancers on stage. Regardless, this performance needs the dancers to support Maléna. Strong lighting and choreography can create a magical performance for Armenia this year, and it seems they are on the right track.
Conclusions
Armenia are on the right track to take the trophy home this year. Should Maléna deliver the live vocals, I see this easily reaching the Top 5. I think this will certainly be a televote favourite on the night, and deservedly so.
Rating
10/10
Dennis:
Song + Vocals
Armenia has a mysterious composition, starting slow tempo but adding some beats and drums as the song continues. 14-year old Maléna has a mature voice and performance, grown a year of course after sadly missing out on Junior Eurovision 2020. The song lasts a bit ‘long’ since the last minute is more of the same.
Performance + Act
I think Maléna will be on a dark stage with dancers next to her, kinda the same feeling we get in the video clip of the song. From the looks of it, she will also know how to stand fiercely and with confidence on stage during her actual performance.
Conclusions
Armenia has had a strong and successful history at Junior Eurovision. Mostly with more child-friendly songs. I have the feeling their 2021 entry is more mature and could have also been a preselection song for the adult contest. If it is suitable enough for the competition in Paris remains to be seen.
Rating
7/10
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Armenia song is absolutely beautiful she is 14 years old and performed this song like adults and this song has beautiful meaning and took me to the heaven Thankyou Armenia 🇦🇲🇦🇲❤️❤️🏆🏆
Beautiful 😍