1) The Result
Despite the hype of having Italian superstar Achille Lauro represent the country after his failed attempt at Sanremo, and despite putting on an elaborate and provocative staging, the song placed 14th in the second semi, foiling San Marino’s attempt at three consecutive qualifications.
2) The Process
The smallest country in the contest has the largest selection process. Just over 100 songs participated in the six-day Una voce per San Marino, which consisted of four semi-finals, a second chance round, and then a 21-song final. (And I’m not counting the almost 300 songs which participated in earlier “emerging artist” rounds.) Only the top 10 entries were announced, with Italian band Piqued Jacks winning the contest.
3) The Artist
Tuscan band Piqued Jacks were established in 2006; their debut EP was released in 2010 and since then they’ve released another two EPs and three full-length albums, alongside a bunch of singles. They give the impression of being a band that has toiled away for many years at its craft, quietly achieving moderate success.
4) The Song
It’s a pretty basic rock song, with some lyrics that really could have been done a lot better.
5) The Verdict
I know this is 37th for a lot of people, and I get it. There’s nothing special here. The lyrics seem to be the main focal point of criticism; however, they don’t frustrate me like some of the entries — they’re just outdated and bland. I do, however, enjoy the last 30 seconds where the singer gets to show off his vocal skills. This is the song’s main saving grace and why it isn’t lower on my list.
My ranking: 29th
EUROVISION, SERIOUSLY 