Israel is often a powerhouse at Eurovision, and this year the nation is sending another powerhouse vocalist. Michael Ben David will preach his message of self-acceptance on stage, singing the anthem I.M.
Anita
Song and Vocals
In a change of selection style this year, Israel’s act was selected through the X Factor. The nation usually has no issues when it comes to the skill of the vocalists, and this year was no exception. Michael Ben David is a fierce vocalist, matched perfectly with this self-acceptance anthem.
I.M is certainly a pride anthem, and given the demographics of Eurovision, this should bring a lot of energy to the arena. On the flip side, I also think it has the potential to alientate viewers who perhaps are a bit more conservative. Looking specifically at the song, there’s no denying that this is one of the most energetic songs of the line-up. The pace is fast, and there are some challenges in this song vocally. I think Michael can handle it, however should the choreography be intensive, this may create a similar issue to Eden Alene where some notes failed to reach the heights.
Performance and Act
I think it’s clear that this will be a choreography heavy performance, with multiple dancers on stage. I expect something colourful, energetic and fun, and being early in the semi-final this should bring a lot of energy to the arena. Pyro? I would definitely say so.
Conclusions
I don’t think this is the strongest song of the semi-final, but I can’t rule it out. It will be interesting to see the split between jury and televotes for this song, however should it reach the final I don’t believe it will achieve a strong result in the final.
Rating
5.5/10
Dennis
Song and Vocals
This is one of the strangest songs of 2022, since it’s hard to define it as one single song. There are so many shift-overs and changes, that it’s hard to get on first listen. It is messy and especially jurors will not react kind to that when they hand out their points. The first notes of Michael are very promising and he is a good vocalist. He undermines it however with his overall performance.
Performance and Act
Because with his openly sexual act, Michael is at risk to make people see only that aspect of the entry. Not even seeing that he is actually a gifted singer. For me this performance is just a bit too much for an entry in a competition. I don’t think it will work out in Israel’s favour.
Conclusions
Israel has a good singer with a weak song (on certain points) and coming with performance in slot 2 in the strong second semi final, I do not fancy their chances this year.
Rating
5.5/10
Team Scores
Steef: 2/10
Erik: 4/10
Josh: 3/10
Heath: 7/10
Kaitlin: 2.5/10
Selim: 1/10
Morena: 8/10
Average Score: 4.3/10
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