Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Margaret Berger "I Feed You My Love"

 

29 down, 10 more to go, beginning with "I Feed You My Love" by Margaret Berger, the Norwegian representative at Malmo 2013.

 

"I Feed You My Love" is a electronic-laden (no dubstep!) tune with strongly backs up Berger's voice. Take a listen:

 



 

A stunning masterpiece and a true contender to win on May 18, that's if it makes it there. Look for the song in the second final.

 

Also since "Stay" by Tooji was a huge letdown last year at Baku, this makes up for it a lot better.

 

Hope for the best.

 

Up next: a review of Cezar "It's My Life." 



16 Teams, One Cup. Stanley Cup Playoffs 2013.

 

"The Maple Leafs are coming back to the playoffs. The Maple Leafs are coming back."

Those are the words of the CBC's Bob Cole after the Leafs clinched their first playoff spot in nine seasons. The lockout-shortened NHL season will finally have their postseason. After four months and 48 games, it is now time for the NHL's version of the Sweet 16.

The Leafs will open playoffs play in their East quarterfinal with the Bruins. The Islanders are also back in the postseason, as they will open their series with the Penguins.

The Wild are also back in the playoffs, and the Red Wings are back for the 22nd consecutive time.

With that in mind, here are the matchups...

(best of seven)

EAST
Quarterfinals
(1) Penguins v (8) Islanders
Game 1 5/1
Game 2 5/3
Game 3 5/5
Game 4 5/7
Game 5 5/9*
Game 6 5/11*
Game 7 5/12*

(4) Bruins v (5) Maple Leafs
Game 1 5/1
Game 2 5/4
Game 3 5/6
Game 4 5/8
Game 5 5/10*
Game 6 5/12*
Game 7 5/13*

(3) Capitals v (6) Rangers
Game 1 5/2
Game 2 5/4
Game 3 5/6
Game 4 5/8
Game 5 5/10*
Game 6 5/12*
Game 7 5/13*

(2) Canadiens v (7) Senators
Game 1 5/2
Game 2 5/3
Game 3 5/5
Game 4 5/7
Game 5 5/9*
Game 6 5/11*
Game 7 5/12*

WEST
Quarterfinals
(1) Blackhawks v (8) Wild
Game 1 4/30
Game 2 5/3
Game 3 5/5
Game 4 5/7
Game 5 5/9*
Game 6 5/11*
Game 7 5/12*

(4) Blues v (5) Kings
Game 1 4/30
Game 2 5/2
Game 3 5/4
Game 4 5/6
Game 5 5/8*
Game 6 5/10*
Game 7 5/13*

(3) Canucks v (6) Sharks
Game 1 5/1
Game 2 5/3
Game 3 5/5
Game 4 5/7
Game 5 5/9*
Game 6 5/11*
Game 7 5/13*

(2) Ducks v (7) Red Wings
Game 1 4/30
Game 2 5/2
Game 3 5/4
Game 4 5/6
Game 5 5/8*
Game 6 5/10*
Game 7 5/12*

*-If necessary.

Every game, every night. On CBC, TSN, NBC, NBC Sports Network, NHL Network, RDS, CNBC and regional carriers.

Because it's the Cup.

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Anouk "Birds"

After this, there will be ten more reviews of the participants of Malmo 2013. This is the 29th. Anouk is one of the most popular singers in the Netherlands, and will represent that country at Malmo with "Birds."

"Birds" is a simple ballad. Take a listen:

This is yet another entry with a borderline chance of making the May 18 grand final. It is good, but not as good as "You and Me" by Joan Franka, who represented the Netherlands at Baku 2012.

Up next: a review of Margaret Berger "I Feed You My Love."

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: The Who See? Klapa "Igranka"

The Who See Klapa is a rap/hip-hop duo which will represent Montenegro at Malmo 2013 with "Reggaeton Montenegro" "Igranka."

Another EUROVISION LVIII participant who had to change songs for a reason. The difference between "Reggaeton Montenegro" and "Igranka" is the beats. "Reggaeton" had a Caribbean sound, while "Igranka"-with the addition of Nina Zizic-has a harder sound, complete with dubstep. Take a listen:

The song is good. It has it all, the power, the raw courage, something that the Austrian duo Trackshittaz (they also have another alias) didn't have at Baku 2012. Raw power and courage is what's needed in a rap/hip-hop tune in the ESC. However, something that needed to go is the dubstep beat. Everything is good except the dubstep. A different beat would have been better. I hate dubstep, but is a powerful choon.

My assessment on this: this is one of my favorites nonetheless. This could surprise everyone as a potential winner at Malmo. Rap doesn't do very well in the ESC, but this could change the juries' minds as well as the voters at home (who will probably get the even crappier tunes of Cyprus and Finland into the finals because they're mostly tween or teen girls).

Also, even though Rambo Amadeus' politically-charged "Euro Neuro" from Baku 2012 is good and funny ("Euroskeptic, analphabetic, try not to be hermetic"), this blows that tune away.

Hope for the best. Can anyone say Niksic 2014?

Up next: a review of Anouk "Birds."

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Alena Moon "O Mie"

Alena Moon will return to EUROVISION this year as a solo artist representing Moldova at Malmo 2013 with "O Mie." She was a backup vocalist on Pasha Parfeny's "Lautar" which represented Moldova at Baku 2012.

"O Mie" is a simple ballad. Take a listen:

It is a borderline chance in making the finals. Also since she was backup vocals on "Lautar," Pasha Parfeny actually wrote the music himself. I didn't like "Lautar" last year. Too corny. This is heaps better.

Up next: a review of Who See Klapa "Igranka."

Friday Jukebox 4.26.13: A Short Tribute to Richie Havens.

Richie Havens, who was the opening act of the first Woodstock in 1969, passed away last week at the age of 72. His guitar playing skills along with the drum beats were his trademark sounds. At Woodstock, here he is on "Freedom":

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Gianluca Bezzina "Tomorrow"

This is now the two-thirds point of the Malmo 2013 '39 For 39' series. Now time for a review of "Tomorrow" by Gianluca Bezzina.

Bezzina is the Maltese representative at Malmo this year. This is a song that is really good, considering of its guitar solo. There have been guitar solos in the EUROVISION before. This one is breathtaking. Take a listen:

I really think this should be borderline regarding qualification of the grand final May 18.

It is also just as good as "This is the Night" by Kurt Calleja, who represented Malta at Baku 2012. No comparison, enough said.

Hope for the best.

Up next: a review of Alena Moon "A  Million."

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Vlatko Lozanoski & Esma Redzepova "Pred da se Razdeni"

Almost into the homestretch in the Malmo 2013 previews. Up next, it's the collaboration of Vlatko Lozanoski and Esma Redzepova on "Pred da se Razdeni."

Not everyone knows about Vlatko Lozanoski, but everyone should know about the one and only Esma Redzepova. She is a humanitarian, a mother of many children and a forefront of the Romani music scene. As the self-proclaimed "Queen of the Gypsies," her song "Caje Sukarije" gained notariety when it was featured on the Borat  soundtrack in 2006. She would later sue Fox and the other makers of the film for copyright issues. Her songs have been covered by other artists, including Sofi Marinova, who represented Bulgaria at Baku 2012 with "Lubov bez Granici."

On "Pred da se Razdeni," it is a moving ballad, with some dubstep elements (I think). Take a listen:

To those complaining about Esma's singing, you are all low life scum. Stick to your illuminati NWO shit, and leave real musicians alone. This is good. Not for the lowest common denominator.

Not as good as Kaliopi Bukle's "Crno i Belo" from Baku 2012. Bukle represented Macedonia the last couple of years in EUROVISION.

I hope this gets to the Grand Final on May 18. Also this isn't the worst song this year at Malmo 2013 (listen to Finland's), and is heaps better than a lot others, such as Spain 2006 and Ireland 2011 and 2012 just to name a few.

Up next: a review of Gianluca Bezzina "Tomorrow."

Allan Arbus, 95, Major Sidney Freeman, M*A*S*H the Television Series

Link.

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Andrius Pojavis "Something"

Next up on my Malmo 2013 preview is a very interesting gem by Andrius Pojavis entitled "Something."

"Something" is a rock gem that I find to be enthralling and worthy of a contender to win it all. Have a listen:

As I mention, this could win it all in Malmo this year. The sound of the track, as well as it's flow. Alternative rock (and rock music as a whole) doesn't get a lot of love in the ESC, but this could basically be the one that proves them wrong. If Lordi proved the naysayers in Athens 2006, then why not?

Also, since this is the Lithuanian effort this year, it is heaps better than "Love is Blind" by Donny Montell, a song that should have never made the final to begin with at Baku 2012.

Up next: a review of Vlatko Lozanoski & Esma Redzepova "Pred da se Radzeni."

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: PeR "Here We Go"

Now back in semifinal mode now with "Here We Go" by PeR.

PeR is a trio from Latvia who will represent that country in Malmo in a few weeks. They will be the first to perform in the second semifinal May 16.

"Here We Go" blends pop with rap. It is one of two (I think) songs at Malmo 2013 with some hip-hop element (the other is the Who See Klapa "Igranka," which I will preview later). Rap has never found a place in the ESC, but this sounds good. Take a listen:

To summon this, this has nothing to do with Bud Light. Also they're trying to sound like the band from the Freecreditscore.com commercials (a couple references for us folks here in the states).

I think this could make the grand final May 18. It is just as good as "Beautiful Song" by Anmary, who was the Latvian representative at Baku 2012. No need to compare.

Hope for the best.

Up next: a review of Andrius Pojavis "Something."

Fucking Shit: TV News Anchor Unaware of Mic On!

First day on air, nervous maybe?

As a result, he has been fired. Only one day and small market news cans him!

Do You Believe in DUI's?

Yes!

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Marco Mengoni "L'essenziale"

Back with a grand final 'big six,' with a review of "L'essenziale" by Marco Mengoni.

Mengoni is a product of manufactured pop. In 2009, he won season three of some Italian show based upon the UK show of the same name. In "L'essenziale," he demonstrates that this is not the typical manufactured pop that is heard on those types of television shows. This is a simple ballad. Take a listen:

It is a good song, but I don't think it's a winner. He won't have to go through the semifinal phase since he is guaranteed only for the grand final May 18.

I also don't think this is a better tune than "L'amore e Femmina" by Nina Zilli, which represented Italy last year in Baku. 'L'amore' was a better tune, but this is good. Hope for the best.

Up next, a reveiw of PeR "Here We Go."

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Moran Mazor "Rak Bishvilo"

Malmo 2013 '39 For 39' is officially in the second half, which means 19 more reviews. The first of which is that of "Rak Bishvilo" by Moran Mazor.

This is yet another soft ballad that is qualified for Malmo. Take a listen:

Since this is the Israeli effort this year, I really feel that this is not as good as "Time" by Tel Aviv-based Izabo, which didn't made the final at Baku 2012. "Time" rocked, but not this. However I really think this is a 'bubble' song considering it to me is on the bubble regarding reaching the final on May 18.

Up next: a review of Marco Mengoni "L'essenziale."

Second Suspect in BAA Marathon Bombing Arrested Friday!

We'll it looks like a second suspect is captured in connection in the Boston Marathon bombing on Monday.

Check out the image:

 

 

THAT'S BOSTON STRONG!

 



Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Ryan Dolan "Only Love Survives"

Guess what! It is the halfway point of the Malmo 2013 '39 For 39' series!

Now it is the 20th of the 39 participants this year in Malmo at LVIII EUROVISION Song Contest. This is "Only Love Survives" by Ryan Dolan, representing Ireland.

This is a good ballad, with some house elements. Take a listen:

This could be a finalist on May 18, but who knows. This is good, and a brilliant effort that heaps more than what Ireland had in 2011 and 2012 with JEDWARD. Hope for the best.

Up next: A review of Moran Mazor "Rak Bishvillo."

One Down, One To Go.

The above image of the surveillance camera outside a building around the time the runners crossed the finish line at the Boston Marathon on Monday, shows two men. Apparently one of the bombers is presumed dead in a gunfire with MIT police. He apparently robbed a 7-Eleven earlier that night, and exchanged gun fire with a MIT police officer, wounding him. The apparent suspect was pronounced dead at the scene.

As a result of the manhunt, Bruins and Red Sox games slated for tonight have been canceled.

As of the time I am posting, there has now been some shots fired in the area of the manhunt. It could have connections to the bombing or the other presumed suspect. Stay tuned.

NBA Playoffs 2013: Where Will Amazing Happen This Year?

It is a bit depressing this year, with the Mavs not in the playoffs as well as the Hornets (Pelicans).

Still, there is the 2013 NBA Playoffs and a championship is there for 16 teams. The Heat are back, as the top seed in the East, with the NBA's best record of 66-16, while Oklahoma City has the best record in the West. Remember, they both met in the NBA Finals last year.

With that in mind, the conference quarterfinal matchups:

(Best of seven)

EAST
(1) Heat v (8) Bucks
Game 1 4/21
Game 2 4/23
Game 3 4/25
Game 4 4/28
Game 5 4/30*
Game 5 5/2*
Game 6 5/4*

(4) Nets v (5) Bulls
Game 1 4/20
Game 2 4/22
Game 3 4/25
Game 4 4/27
Game 5 4/29*
Game 6 5/2*
Game 7 5/4*

(3) Pacers v (6) Hawks
Game 1 4/21
Game 2 4/24
Game 3 4/27
Game 4 4/29
Game 5 5/1*
Game 6 5/3*
Game 7 5/5*

(2) Knicks v (7) Celtics
Game 1 4/20
Game 2 4/23
Game 3 4/26
Game 4 4/28
Game 5 5/1*
Game 6 5/3*
Game 7 5/5*

WEST
(1) Thunder v (8) Rockets
Game 1 4/21
Game 2 4/24
Game 3 4/27
Game 4 4/29
Game 5 5/1*
Game 6 5/3*
Game 7 5/5*

(4) Clippers v (5) Grizzlies
Game 1 4/20
Game 2 4/22
Game 3 4/25
Game 4 4/27
Game 5 4/30*
Game 6 5/3*
Game 7 5/5*

(3) Nuggets v (6) Warriors
Game 1 4/20
Game 2 4/23
Game 3 4/26
Game 4 4/28
Game 5 4/30*
Game 6 5/2*
Game 7 5/4*

(2) Spurs v (7) Lakers
Game 1 4/21
Game 2 4/24
Game 3 4/26
Game 4 4/28
Game 5 4/30*
Game 6 5/2*
Game 7 5/4*
*-if necessary

All games on TNT, ESPN, ABC or NBA TV. Every game every night because it's the playoffs.

Where will amazing happen this year?

Friday Jukebox 4.19.13

Since tomorrow is 4/20, I felt like playing this: "Pass the Marijuana" by Mystic Roots. It has nothing to do with either Sublime or Bob Marley.

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Eypor Ingi Gunlaugsson "Eg a Lif"

Almost halfway in the Malmo 2013 '39 For 39' series, as the focus shifts to the Icelandic entry this year-"Eg a Lif" by Eypor Ingi Gunlaugsson.

"Eg a Lif" is a nice ballad, that is very moving. Take a listen:

I really think it should make the final. It is strong enough to show up on May 18 in the Grand Final.

Also I wouldn't say it is better than "Never Forget," by Jonsi and Greta Salome Stefansdottir, which represented Iceland at Baku 2012. I found in comparison that "Never Forget" is the supreme track, but I hope Eypor the best at Malmo.

Up next: a review of Ryan Dolan "Only Love Survives."

Yet Another Explosion: A Fertilizer Plant in central Texas.

First the deadly bombing after the BAA Marathon on Monday, and earlier this morning, another explosion, but this time it cost a lot more lives.

About 40 are presumed dead in a fertilizer plant explosion in West, Texas, which is south of Waco. As you see in the image above, the plant explosion is about a mile away from where this picture was taken, outside of the Czech Stop, a big tourist stop in West.

Before you picture this and say that the Sonic next door had anything to do with the explosion, think again. Remember, it is the fertilizer plant that is exploded, not the Sonic, so it doesn't have anything to do with their new line of fruity iced teas, nor their popcorn chicken or other bite sized snacks they have.

What came out of this, was the adjacent rail line next to the plant. The rail line-owned by BNSF (I think)-is halting traffic through the area until it is cleaned up. There is a railroad access to the plant, which could fuel a suspicion that a railcar could ignite the blast, or someone tampering with a railcar by placing a bomb or throwing something explosive, such as firecrackers or fireworks. Any possibility is endless.

Still, I wasn't unaware of this until early this morning when I woke up and turned on Fox News to watch reports about this. Who knows what could cause such an explosion.

The investigation is now. Prayers go out to the victims and their families.

Bruins Fans All Sing the National Anthem!

Two days after the Boston Marathon bombing, check out the touching national anthem at the Bruins game, as Rene Rancourt gets the fans into the act:

Speaking of which, two men are believed to be the suspects and are wanted in connection with the bombing Monday.

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: ByeAlex "Kedvesem"

Malmo 2013 '39 For 39' is approaching halfway, as this is the 18th of 39 reviews for Malmo 2013.

ByeAlex (aka Alex Marta) is the Hungarian representative this year in Malmo with a soft, flowing ballad called "Kedvesem." Take a listen:

This one should make the final definitely. Free flowing ballad, not too soft.

Compare this to Compact Disco's "Sound of Our Hearts" from Baku last year, it is just as awesome as this. No need to compare. The end.

Up next: a review of Eypor Ingi Gunnlaugsson "Eg a Lif."

Pat Summerall, 82

Link.

Started out as a placekicker at the University of Arkansas and later with Chicago Cardinals and New York Giants, he would later had a more prominent role as a play by play broadcaster, with both CBS and Fox Sports.

At CBS, he did not only the NFL, but also the Masters, NCAA Division I men's basketball, and U.S. Open tennis. A more perfect example of his work at CBS is the 4th round of the US Open 1991, the infamous "Very clear my butt!" match between Jimmy Connors and Aaron Krickstein, on Labor Day 1991:

When CBS' NFL rights was overtaken by Fox after the 1993 National Conference Championship game, his partnership with John Madden continued on for more years. No harms no fouls, truly a great team and the best NFL commentary pairing ever.

In Super Bowl XXXVI, the final drive. Live on Fox.

His final play by play ever was the 2010 Cotton Bowl at Cowboys Stadium between Ole Miss and Oklahoma State.

He along with Al Michaels, Dick Enberg, and a few others are a great joy to listen to during the NFL season and at other events.

He will be missed, along with his potent potables.

The Force Choke Worked...36 Years Later?

Link.

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Koza Mostra & Agathonas Iakovidis "Alcohol is Free"

It seems this year it is about the traditional folk elements (see Bulgaria). Now the Greek entrants Koza Mostra and Agathonas Iakovidis are injecting this element into a punk rock tune called "Alcohol is Free."

"Alcohol is Free" is a funny song, and the sound mostly channels the punk/ska rock scene. Maybe some Sublime? Take a listen:

Now this is the gold mine for the ad agencies for the alcoholic beverage manufacturers to start using this in an ad. Unless it is only targeting the legal drinking age drinkers and not the under 21's.

As for the song, I hope this makes the final. This is a song worthy of a win in EUROVISION, and hopefully to bring the ESC to Athens in 2014.

I also think this is heaps better than last year's offering "Aphrodisiac," by Eleftheria Eleftheriou, one of those acts who I thought should have never made the final in the first place out of a very weak first semifinal in Baku.

Up next: a review of ByeAlex "Kedvesem."

Boston Marathon Explosion Aftermath

First off, I want to write this. I got up around 10:30am and turned on Universal Sports. There was the finish of the BAA Boston Marathon, the most grueling marathon in the world.

A great finish for the men. Also Shalene Flanagan got 4th and Kara Goucher 6th in the women. Congrats to all the class winners.

And then there was this...

The explosion at the finish line, injuring hundreds, killing three. Thankfully, the Sox game at Fenway (Fenway is part of the route of the marathon every year)-whose first pitch was 11am local time-got through before this happened. The Bruins cancelled their game with the Sens, which was to be a 7pm local faceoff, and the Celtics cancelled their game, which was to be aired nationally on the NBA on TNT tonight.

You see the image above, note the blue M&M is there standing. I'm assuming there's a candy store there, and it's a standing image. No human is in that blue M&M. Rule him out as a suspect.

A terrible way to ruin Patriot's Day by way of this. Was the bomber tired of Kenyans and Ethiopians dominating the men and women and foreigners in general dominating the wheelchair races? Who knows? Some say it's false flag, but again, who knows? It could be a suicide bomber, but who knows?

A lot of possibilities of suspects in this attack. It will continue to take days and investigations as well.

Also check out this first hand video of the explosion:

 

 

Scary. Prayers for the victims. 

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Bonnie Tyler "Believe in Me"

Just like Cascada, Bonnie Tyler is another brand name act you should know, Eurofans.

Last year, Engelbert Humperdinck was the oldest participant in Baku at age 76. At Malmo this year, Bonnie Tyler is the oldest (I think) at 63. Bonnie Tyler will represent Great Britain in Malmo this year. The same one who did "Total Eclipse of the Heart" and "Holding Out for a Hero." Those two world renowned hits from the mid 1980s.

Here, a folksy ballad, that almost channels country music, is displayed here in "Believe in Me":

Just like Engelbert last year with "Love Will Set You Free," I think this is great. This could be a contender for the win despite all you naysayers will say.

It's greatness. No need to hold out for a zero here. As a 'big six' participant in Malmo, you can see her perform ONLY in the Grand Final May 18.

Up next: Koza Mostra and Agathonas Iakovidis "Alcohol is Free."

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Cascada "Glorious"

After the one day hiatus due to the tragedy in Boston after the 117th BAA Marathon, I have decided to continue on with my reviews for all participants of Malmo 2013, the LVIII EUROVISION Song Contest.

The '39 For 39' series is now focusing on Germany. Cascada, who had a top ten hit in the UK in 2004 with a cover of "Everytime We Touch," will represent the country at Malmo. The same three that has been around off and on the past decade are still alive. Listen to "Glorious," a tune that exactly has the vibes of "Euphoria," the winning tune by Loreen Talhaoui from last year, and see if this is just as great as "Euphoria":

To me, it has that same feel, but even better than "Euphoria." Hell, it's even better than "Everytime We Touch," which was a typical AATW tune with AATW beats.

This looks to be a contender for the win. Why? Because of it's raw courage and excitement. The trio has made a statement saying that they're back and better than ever! This is proof.

I also think this is just as good as the epic ballad "Standing Still" by Roman Lob, who represented Germany at Baku 2012. No comparison.

Look for them to try to win it all on May 18 as they perform ONLY in the Grand Final, as one of the 'big six.'

Speaking of 'big six,' next up on '39 For 39' is Bonnie Tyler "Believe in Me."

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Postponed today.

In light of the bombing after the Boston Marathon today, I have postponed the '39 For 39' for Malmo 2013 until tomorrow or Wednesday.

Thank you,

M.

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Nodi Tatishvili & Sophie Gelovani "Waterfall"

Malmo 2013 '39 For 39' continues now with the duet of Nodiko Tatishvili and Sophie Gelovani with "Waterfall."

The duo, representing Georgia, has one of the strongest ballads I've ever heard in ESC in a long time. Take a listen:

I admit, this one will definitely make the final. Why? This song is co-written by Thomas 'G:Son' Gustafsson, who wrote last year's winner, "Euphoria" by Loreen Talhaoui.

This song is no joker, unlike Anri Jokhardze's from last year. Heaps better than "I'm a Joker."

Up next: A review of Cascada "Glorious."

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Amandine Bourgeois "L'enfer et Moi"

Now it my first review of the Big 6 at Malmo 2013, beginning with "L'enfer et Moi," by Amandine Bourgeois, who will represent France at EUROVISION LVIII next month.

France, along with Great Britain, Germany, Spain, Italy and the host Sweden already qualified for the Grand Final on May 18.

This is a piece that is breathtaking, considering of it's abundance of guitar riffs and the 'bluesy' atmosphere this song has. Take a listen:

Will this be a winner? It could definitely be a winner. No need to go through a semifinal here. Also, comparing this to "Echo" by Anggun Cipta Sasmi from last year, I would say, both are good, but this one is the far superior one. No argument.

Up next: A review of Nodi Tatishvili & Sophie Gelovani "Waterfall."

Jonathan Winters, 87, Actor, Comedian

Link.

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Krista Siegfrids "Marry Me!"

Finland will once again have a female solo act as their representative in the EUROVISION. This year it is Krista Siegfrids with "Marry Me!"

To me, this has to be one of Finland's worst entries to date. Why? I've read and seen here on the net about this song and its comparison to the shit Katy Perry puts out. Take a listen:

My jury on this: this will NOT make the grand final on May 18. I would also say that there have been some better entries from Finland in their ESC history, including Lordi's "Hard Rock Hallelujah," which to me is the greatest winner in the history of the ESC, pound for pound.

Also I think that Pernilla Karlsson's "Nar Jag Blundar" from last year was heaps better than this. Lessons learned when there's a shit song that is put out, you know it should not have a lot of success. Case closed.

Up next: A review of Amadine Bourgeois "L'enfer et Moi," which begins the look at the 'Big 6' exclusively for grand final day.

Friday Jukebox 4.12.13: It's Back!

It's Masters weekend, and you know what it means...the theme of the tournament, "Augusta" by Dave Loggins, released 1981.

A tradition unlike any other...

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Birgit Oigemeel "Et Uus Saaks Alguse"

Birgit Oigemeel will represent Estonia this year at EUROVISION LVIII next month with "Et Uus Saaks Alguse."

"Et Uus Saaks Alguse" is a piano fused tune, almost similar to Ott Lepland's "Kuula" from last year. Take a listen:

My jury on this: Like "Kuula" at Baku 2012, this one will make the final. It is good and fills your soul up right. If you like your EUROVISION song with elements of the piano, then you've headed to the right place. It is just as good as "Kuula" as well.

Up next: a review of Krista Siegfrieds "Marry Me!"

Pittsburgh 2013: The Road Comes to an End.

NCAA Division I championship week comes to an end in Pittsburgh this weekend with the men's Frozen Four for ice hockey.

In the modern era all four programs are making their first appearance in the Frozen Four.

Not really. Yale played in the Frozen Four back in 1955 (I think), when only four teams made the postseason in Division I. This will be the first time in this era that Yale has earned their way into the Frozen Four.

The other three-Quinnipiac, St. Cloud State and Massachusetts Lowell are making their first appearance in the Frozen Four.

Quinnipiac, like Yale, is a member of ECAC in ice hockey. They were top ranked in the country according to the USCHO poll and had one of the best penalty kills in Division I.

Massachusetts Lowell, like Florida Gulf Coast in men's basketball, is a feel good story in Division I athletics the last few weeks. UML, who won the Hockey East tournament, and like FGCU basketball, has quickly jumped to the Division I in a fast way. They could spoil things on Thursday and Saturday.

St. Cloud State is the only member of the soon-to-be-defunct WCHA to still remain in the D-I tournament. The WCHA, along with the CCHA are in their last seasons, due to the conference realignments for 2013-14.

With that in mind..

NATIONAL Semifinals
(1Providence) Quinnipiac v (Toledo) St. Cloud State
(3Manchester) Massachusetts Lowell v (Grand Rapids) Yale

Both semifinals are live Thursday on ESPN2 and ESPNU with the final on Saturday on ESPN (the mothership that is).

A Tradition Unlike Any Other: The Masters 2013

 

Yeah, we all remember Bubba Watson in the final round last year bursting into tears after he completed his round. Quite possibly, one of the most emotional moments in sport.

Now he'll be back to defend the title and will he once again sport the green jacket come Sunday?

95 others have something to say about that.

Thursday & Friday tee times of notability
(First/second round, all times local to the course)
Sandy Lyle 8am/10:56am
John Peterson 8am/10:56am
Larry Mize 8:11am/11:07am
Ian Woosnam 8:22am/11:18am
David Toms 8:33am/11:29am
Tom Watson 8:44am/11:40am
Mike Weir 9:06am/12:13pm
Lee Westwood 9:06am/12:13pm
Jim Furyk 9:06am/12:13pm
Brandt Snedeker 9:17am/12:24pm
Ryo Ishikawa 9:17am/12:24pm
Jose Maria Olazabal 9:28am/12:35pm
Charl Schwartzel 9:39am/12:46pm
Webb Simpson 9:39am/12:46pm
Zach Johnson 9:50am/12:57pm
Choi KJ 9:50am/12:57pm
Graeme McDowell 9:50am/12:57pm
Stewart Cink 10:23am/1:19pm
Nicolas Colsaerts 10:23am/1:19pm
Bubba Watson 10:34am/1:30pm
Ian Poulter 10:34am/1:30pm
Luke Donald 10:45am/1:41pm
Tiger Woods 10:45am/1:41pm
Rickie Fowler 10:56am/1:52pm
Padraig Harrington 10:56am/1:52pm
DA Points 11:07am/8am
Craig Stadtler 11:18am/8:11am
Mark O'Meara 11:29am/8:22am
Martin Laird 11:29am/8:22am
Paul Lawrie 11:40am/8:33am
Tomas Bjorn 11:40am/8:33am
Trevor Immelman 11:51am/8:44am
Ernie Els 12:13pm/8:55am
Steve Stricker 12:13pm/8:55am
Nick Watney 12:13pm/8:55am
Ben Crenshaw 12:24pm/9:06am
Guan T 12:24pm/9:06am
Bernhard Langer 12:35pm/9:17am
Lucas Glover 12:35pm/9:17am
Henrik Stenson 12:35pm/9:17am
Vijay Singh 12:46pm/9:28am
Bo van Pelt 12:46pm/9:28am
Yang YE 12:46pm/9:28am
Angel Cabrera 12:57pm/9:39am
Sergio Garcia 12:57pm/9:39am
Adam Scott 12:57pm/9:39am
Fred Couples 1:08pm/9:50am
Dustin Johnson 1:08pm/9:50am
Hunter Mahan 1:19pm/10:12am
Francesco Molinari 1:19pm/10:12am
Louie Oosthuizen 1:30pm/10:23am
Martin Kaymer 1:30pm/10:23am
Phil Mickelson 1:30pm/10:23am
Fredrik Jacobson 1:41pm/10:34am
Keegan Bradley 1:41pm/10:34am
Rory McIlroy 1:41pm/10:34am
Jason Dufner 1:52pm/10:45am
Matt Kuchar 1:52pm/10:45am

First and second rounds LIVE on ESPN Thursday and Friday, with the final two rounds on CBS Saturday and Sunday.

Also download their app. I have one! Also visit Masters.com for live scoring and Dial Global radio!

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Emmelie de Forest "Only Teardrops"

Emmelie de Forest is one of the youngest competitors in this year's EUROVISION. She will represent Denmark with "Only Teardrops."

"Only Teardrops" is a song that is moving in an emotionally manner. Starts soft, some bagpipes, and a huge choon in the middle. Check it out:

My jury on this: it is just as good as "Should've Known Better," the masterpiece by Soluna Samay from last year. This one should be able to show up in the Grand Final on May 18.

Up next: a review of Birgit Oigemeel "Et Uus Saaks Alguse."

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Despina Olympiou "An Me Thimase"

Malmo 2013 '39 For 39' continues with "An Me Thimase" by Despina Olympiou.

Despina Olympiou is one of the most popular singers in the Mediterranean region and will represent Cyprus in Malmo next month.

"An Me Thimase" is a soft ballad with some soft guitar riffs. Take a listen:

My jury on this: it is good, yet better than the trashy slutwave bullshit known as "La La Love" by Ivi Adamou last year, which should've never made the final, and was one of the acts last year that deserves nul points in the first place.

Also, I really think this song, despite the banking crises on the island nation, will not make it to the final. That's my two cents.

Up next: a review of Emmelie de Forest "Only Teardrops."

Margaret Thatcher, 87

Link.

Britain's first female PM and one of the greatest PM's besides Churchill. Love or hate her, at least she was a catalyst in ending the Cold War.

Annette Funicello, 70, Mouseketeer and 'America's Sweetheart.'

Link.

Has battled MS for the past couple decades.

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Klapa s Mora "Mizerja"

Malmo 2013 '39 For 39' continues with "Mizerja" by the Croatian sextet Klapa s Mora.

Klapa s Mora sounds like the typical barbershop singing group. However, they are not really a barbershop singer group. These guys have some soft, melodic sounds to accompany their EUROVISION song:

To me it is an okay song, and it should get to the Grand Final.

On the other hand, head to head with Nina Badric's "Nebo" from last year, "Nebo" was better. Hope for the best for these guys.

Up next: a preview of Despina Olympiou "An Me Thymasai."

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Stoyan Yankoulov & Elitsa Todorova "Samo Shampioni"

Malmo 2013 '39 For 39' continues as I preview Stoyan Yankoulov and Elitsa Stodorova's "Kismet" "Samo Shampioni."

"Samo shampioni" translates from Bulgarian language to English as "only champions." Yankoulov and Stodorova, for the second time together, will represent Bulgaria in EUROVISION at Malmo 2013.

In 2007, the duo made the final, finishing 6th overall with "Voda." The only time Bulgaria has made the final in EUROVISION.

"Samo Shampioni" combines a whole lot of genres, from alternative rock and electronic fused in with some dubstep (I really hate dubstep). Take a listen:

For the record, this will be the ninth consecutive year Bulgaria is part of the ESC since their debut in 2005. BNT and the Bulgarian ESC handpicked them to represent the country, instead of the traditional national final filled with various artists (the last one was 2012). Three songs were selected. The fans selected "Samo Shampioni" but "Kismet" won. A song change a few weeks later suggested that "Kismet" had copyright issues and thus the change to "Samo Shampioni."

As for the song, I can say this. It is just as good and equal in awesomeness as "Lubov bez Granici," by Sofi Marinova, last year's Bulgarian ESC representative, who missed out on Bulgaria's second final appearance due to a tiebreaker with Tooji in the second semifinal at Baku (Sofi's placement is the second highest amongst Bulgarian ESC entries). Don't compare. If you're a true ESC fan (and music fan in general), you would appreciate both this and "Lubov bez Granici."

This should also make the final as well.

Up next: Klapa s Mora "Mizerja."

The Road to New Orleans Ends: Women's D-I Final Four 2013

 

And so it is. The women's Final Four for NCAA Division I women's basketball begins Sunday.

A very interesting group of teams battling for the national title this year.

California is headlining this group of four, as they are making their very first Final Four appearance in impressive fashion. As Spokane region champions, they got through Fresno State in the first round, USF in the second round (two-overtime game), a shortened LSU squad in the regional semifinal and Georgia in the regional final. Lindsay Gottlieb (no relation to CBS' Doug Gottlieb) is in her fifth year as a head coach, her second at Cal and has transformed that program as the premier women's program in the PAC 12.

Louisville also has some good vibes. Besides their men's team in the Final Four in Atlanta, their women's program is in the Final Four in the Big Easy as well. People didn't expect Louisville to go this far, but it was their win against top seeded Baylor in the Oklahoma City regional semifinal that shook everyone's heads. Their game with Cal should be interesting on Sunday.

The only two number one seeds still alive will play each other on Sunday night in a semifinal as Notre Dame and Connecticut, both in their final years in the futurely-now-defunct Big East, will be the game to watch Sunday. Notre Dame was runners-up in 2011, but could be a contender to dethrone a very successfull Lady Huskies team.

With that in mind...

NATIONAL SEMIFINALS
Sunday
(2Spokane) California v (5OKC) Louisville
(1Norfolk) Notre Dame v (1Bridgeport) UConn

Both the semifinals on Sunday and the final on Tuesday night are live on ESPN.

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Roberto Bellarosa "Love Kills"

My Malmo 2013 '39 For 39' series continues with Roberto Bellarosa and "Love Kills."

Here's an Italian singer who will represent Belgium this year in Malmo, and this is a track that is great. Take a listen:

My final jury: it should compete in the grand final. It has a great beat, and a great feeling, something lacked in the representatives of Lithuania, Norway, Turkey and Moldova last year.

I also think this is better than Iris' "Would You?" from last year, even though I don't mind that track.

Up next: a review of Stoyan Yankulov & Elitsa Todorova "Samo Shampioni."

Men's NCAA D-I Final Four: Four Teams, Four Stories. One Shining Moment.

The road to Atlanta has come to an end. The Final Four in Division I NCAA men's basketball is this weekend at the Georgia Dome. Lots of stories coming out of the four participants heading into Saturday's national semifinals.

Wichita State, the 9th seed in the West, is making their first Final Four appearance in school history, and they had an interesting path to go through in that region. They defeated Pitt in the first round, top seed Gonzaga in the second, the rising LaSalle squad in the regional semifinal, and Ohio State in the regional final.

Louisville, the only number 1 seed still left in the tournament, is going through a whole lot, especially after the Kevin Ware scary leg injury in the Midwest regional final on Sunday at the 'Drum.' Quite possibly one of the more scarier moments in sport, Ware broke his leg and his teammates began to cry. His teammates will honor him this weekend with this phrase "all in for ware." The 'All in' comes from adidas, UL's official equipment supplier, whose slogan is 'all in.'

Michigan is back in the Final Four for the first time in nearly 20 years, with a new coach, and a squad that never gives up. The South regional champions are ready to do something the Fab Five never did--win a national title.

Syracuse, despite the problems in that program, still managed to win the East regional against Marquette. Wonder how some people will feel if they win it all?

With that in mind, the national semifinals:

NATIONAL Semifinals
Saturday
(1MW) Louisville v (9W) Wichita State
(4S) Michigan v (4E) Syracuse

The final three matches of the NCAA tournament-the Saturday semifinals and the Monday night final-are all on CBS, kicking off a week of NCAA championships that end with the national championship for men's ice hockey Saturday night (4.13) on ESPN.

Friday Jukebox 4.5.13

I started listening to this earlier Friday morning on the DI.fm trance channel. This is a masterpiece from the one and only Lange from 2010, so good and driving, I felt like uploading both the original and Mat Zo (famous for his work at Anjuna) mixes of "Live Forever."

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Alena Lanskaya "Solayoh"

Malmo 2013 '39 For 39' rolls on with Alena Lanskaya with "Rhythm of Love" "Solayoh."

Why the title and song change? Remember, she won the Belarussian national final with "Rhythm of Love," but changed the song to a different beat. Either way, they're both good. It's not like Litesound last year when "We are the Heroes" tweaked the sound a bit for the stage in Baku. I still like both, despite the chance that if I had a choice, I'd say their studio version was better. Keep in mind, she was disqualified after initially winning the national final for Baku last year, resulting in Litesound heading to Baku. This time, she got away scot-free.

See for yourself whether or not you liked the song change by listening to "Solayoh":

My final jury: I have decided to break down the review into two:

• Don't even compare "Solayoh" with "Rhythm of Love." Both great, both would make the final either way.
• Don't compare this with "We are the Heroes" by Litesound. Both great tunes, and I hoped that Litesound would've made the final last year.

I hope this one will head to the grand final on May 18.

EDIT: forgot to add that the official music video for this song is out. It's on the EUROVISION YouTube page.

Up next: Roberto Bellarosa "Love Kills."

Roger Ebert, 70. Two Thumbs Down to Cancer.

 

 

Link.

 

He and Gene Siskel can now give two thumbs up from heaven.

 



Horrific Injury in Midwest Region Final on Easter Sunday.

From the NCAA Division I men's basketball Midwest region final on Sunday. Too bad my power went out, but this was the scariest injury I've seen since Joe Theismann got his leg broke in a nighttime NFL game in 1985.

Louisville forward Kevin Ware chasing the ball out of bounds:

The injury was scary, CBS Sport wouldn't replay any much more.

Louisville won the game, and will play on Saturday at the Georgia Dome against Wichita State in a national semifinal.

Malmo 2013 39 For 39: Natalia Kelly "Shine"

The '39 For 39' continues with Natalia Kelly. She will represent Austria in this year's EUROVISION LVIII in Malmo next month with the song "Shine."

This song almost channels the 'femi-folk' of the '90s (see Meredith Brooks, Melissa Etheridge, Shawn Colvin, etc.), and here's why:

This also reminds me (almost) of Soluna Samay last year with her song "Should've Known Better." Don't you think.

The jury: Last year, I thought Trackshittaz was a huge letdown with "Woki Dem Mit Popo" because the song deserved a different beat (a DJ Premier-style beat). I'm a rap fan, and the lyrics of that song also threw me off. This song above makes up for the Austrian letdown. I think this could be a song that should get into the final.

By the way, I had Azerbaijan yesterday, it should have been Austria yesterday instead of Azerbaijan.

Up next: Alena Lanskaya "Solayoh."

Rutgers Men's Basketball Coach Fired Due to His Practice Regime!

Link.

First the controversy between their women's program and Don Imus and now this. RU hoops has surely gone through a lot within the past five years.

ONE Kings & Champions 2013: Aoki v Boku for the Lightweight Championship!

After a couple months, ONE Fighting Championship is back with 'Kings and Champions' 2013, on Friday.

In a 'champion vs champion' affair, the main event brings in two champions from different promotions. Kotetsu Boku is the current ONE lightweight champion while Shinya Aoki is the current DREAM lightweight champion who was impressive at DREAM 18 on New Years Eve. This is a match that is good for all of mixed martial arts.

Also on the card is the ONE bantamweight grand prix semifinals as well as the PRIDE, DREAM and Strikeforce veteran Melvin Manhoef.

 

CARD

Bantamweight Grand Prix

Semifinals

(136 lb/61.2 kg)

Jens Pulver v Masakatsu Ueda

Thanh Vu v Kevin Bellingon

 

Lightweight championship

Title fight

(156 lb/70.3 kg)

Kotetsu Boku (c) v Shinya Aoki

 

 

For more information, visit ONEfc.com. Great card. 



BELLATOR 95: Curran v Shamhalaev for the Featherweight World Title!

Thursday's BELLATOR 95 will bring down the curtain for BELLATOR's Season 8, their first season on SPIKE.

The main event will be for the featherweight world title, as Pat Curran will defend the title against recent featherweight tournament winner Shahbulat Shamhalaev.

Two tournament finals will determine #1 contenders for future title shots. In the featherweight tournament final, it will be Frodo Khasbulaev taking on Mike Richman. The winner will no doubt keep a good close watch on Curran/Shamhalaev in the main event. In the middleweight tournament final, it will be Doug Marshall taking on Brett Cooper with a title shot against Alex Shlemenko in the future.

Also Rick Hawn and Lyman Good will be in action.

 

CARD

Featherweight tournament

Final

(145 lb/65.25 kg)

Frodo Khasbulaev v Mike Richman

 

Middleweight tournament

final

(185 lb/83.25 kg)

Doug Marshall v Brett Cooper

 

Featherweight championship

title fight

(145 lb/65.25 kg)

Pat Curran (c) v Shahbulaet Shamhalaev

 

 

LIVE on SPIKE Thursday night after IMPACT Wrestling! Last chance to see BELLATOR before the traditional Summer Series!