Love it or hate it, the biggest international song competition is coming to a television near you this weekend. If you’re hoping to escape the kitsch-fest, we have the perfect antidote. Our European Editors have assembled some of the best music coming out of Hungary, Austria, Greece and beyond in our own Alternative Eurovision playlist.
The playlist of 23 tracks highlights some of the most exciting artists in our Editors’ libraries, from the infectious beat of Hungary’s anthemic track ‘Together’, by Ivan & The Parazol, to the sultry tones of ‘Circus’, a quiet mix of post-rock, synth pop and electro, courtesy of German sibling duo Hundreds. In addition, Austria’s Left Boy delivers a surprisingly fresh approach to a well-defined genre, fusing his rap, vocal and production skills in ‘Time And Again’, while The Voice semi-finalist Yuri Melkov will steal your heart in his duet with fellow Cypriot Helena Paparizou, ‘Kenourgia Agapi’. Over in the UK our Editors chose to highlight emerging artist Javeon, cut from the same cloth as his label-mate Jessie Ware, with his song “Intoxicated”. He would certainly take home douze points from us.
Here’s what some of our Editors had to say about their selections:
Calm After The Storm – The Common Linnets (Netherlands)
“Well-known Dutch artists Ilse DeLange and Waylon combine powers with their new project ‘The Common Linnets’ to re-discover the basics of true country music. Shortly after premiering their single ‘Calm After The Storm’ on national television, they stormed the iTunes charts. Now it’s just a matter of time before they take over the rest of Europe” – Steijn, Deezer Editor Netherlands.
Blue – We Cut Corners (Ireland)
“We Cut Corners’ blustering indie-rock with pop sensibilities come in short, sharp shocks and definitely pack a punch, making them our pick. We think Europe, and the rest of the world, will fall in love with them too” – James, Deezer Editor Ireland.
Agua Que No Has De Beber – Maria Rodes (Spain)
“María Rodés set out to create a compilation album of movie songs. She recorded a highly personal tribute to Spanish music, and at the same time managed to create a new musical genre: twenty-first century ‘copla’. From her new album María Canta Copla we have chosen the song ’Agua que no has de beber’, popularised by Sara Montiel in the film ‘La Violetera’” – Fran, Deezer Editor Spain.
Secrets – Royal Bravada (Italy)
“Strongly influenced by Brit-pop and indie rock, this 5-piece was born in 2012 and has since grown steadily, with a strong fanbase. After a year of intense work they released their first album, with an aim to be the soundtrack of a young generation that loves to dance, sing, laugh and cry through life’s everyday trials” – Paola, Deezer Editor Italy.
Enjoy the entire playlist below (drinking games optional)!
