Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/630594
maltatoday, Sunday, 24 January 2016 News PHOTOGRAPHY BY TVM Newcomers vie for attention among veterans at Malta Eurovision Song Contest Ira Losco, Christabelle and Brooke emerge as crowd favourites, while host Ben Camille respects the cringe- worthy Malta Eurovision tradition ChuCky Bartolo Fourteen performers gave their all on stage, in last night's Malta eurovision Song Contest. the acts, who were vying for a chance to represent Malta in Stockholm this May, belted it out in the hopes of impressing a combined and live jury and televoting system. At time of printing, the phone lines had just closed, and the technical team was working to tally the calls into a score with equal weight of just one juror. the crowd's favourite artists became clear right away as Ira Losco, Christabelle, and Brooke took to the stage amidst screams from loyal fans within the audi- ence at the MCC. Although all three veteran artists delivered in terms of performance, the songs themselves didn't quite hit the mark given the expectations that surrounded them. other stand out performances from the night included new- comer Jasmine who impressed audiences with her unique take on the overdone eurovision trope that is the power-ballad. "Alive" resonated with those watching as it showcased her strong vocal, whilst providing the level of the- atrics necessary to survive in the eurovision Song Contest. Although most would agree that, as a host, Ben Camille was a treat to the eyes, you'd be hard pressed to find any of the compliments extending to his presenting skills. Despite this, it's hard to be overly critical of Camille, as he did a bet- ter job than some who come before him, and it's practically a staple of the eurovision for the hosts to be somewhat cringe-worthy. Attempting to hide the tragic downsizing from last year's stage, 2016's crew significantly amped the power on the background graphics displayed. unfortunately the amplification was not one in good taste, as despite some acts desperately needing the energy burst, the kitsch lighting and pro- jection overwhelmed most of the performers. Read Chucky Bartolo's full, to- the-minute live blog of last night's show at MaltaToday.com.mt Brooke Borg Franklin Ira Losco Jasmine Jessika