16 countries went all out in the first semifinal to get one of the 10 final tickets. And that includes Belgium. But as is often the case, it was nail biting for the Belgian delegation, almost to the last minute. Belgium only came out as 9th and penultimate finalist. The relief is visible on the faces of Geike Arnaert, Alex Callier and Raymond Geerts.
Hooverphonic did what they had to do during “their” three minutes: convince with a (at first sight) simple and stylized act. One without the slightest mistake: Geike Arnaert sang “The wrong place” – about a one night stand that goes wrong – strong and flawless, and does not lose eye contact with the cameras for half a second. She literally sings the songs into European living rooms. “This is unlike anything you’ve seen so far, and that’s an advantage,” commented commentator Peter Van de Veire.
Geike’s strong singing performance is supported by eerie close-ups of her face and hands on the large video screen behind her. All group members – Alex Callier, Raymond Geerts, drummer Arnout and backing singer Monique – are dressed sober in black: a stark contrast to the other outfits that pass in revue during the first semifinal. Geike closes with a beautiful smile. And that will be rewarded with a place in the final: daring to opt for austerity pays off.
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