It took a while for the Dutch act to find their form following a so-so first rehearsal, but spectators in the arena were in for a pleasant surprise.
The threesome also scrubbed up rather well, with Jan wearing a dazzling white suit with a blue shirt which suited his hair colour well, with blond Jaap wearing a dark waistcoat and trousers paired with a white shirt, and with older Jaap wearing a dark suit to the right of Jan. The backing singers are dressed in complementing outfits in black, blending discreetly into the background.The group have the same positions as in the first rehearsals.
The lighting effects have seen some changes but basically keep the same colours as before; hazy purples which goes well with the neon pink strips that light the stage from below and above. The colour of lighting changes halfway through the number to white, with flashing lamps as the chorus starts. Still no sign of any imagery on the backdrop wall, with simple lighting effects, with broadcaster TROS seemingly unwilling to make any changes in this department.
A convincing second rehearsal, in which the group repeatedly deliver the goods, with everything coming together a treat. Jan’s voice was in fine form, soaring and carrying well across the arena. After their first rehearsal, singer Jan was clearly having trouble reaching some of the notes, and the backing singers also sounded quite hoarse. Today was a different matter completely with the group giving their all and turning in a brilliant, inspiring performance, with the backing singers singing more subdued, allowing us to hear Jan’s voice much better.
All in all a dynamic, uplifting yet moving performance with the 2 guitarists moving around and the backing singers swaying and clapping from side to side. Much punchier and defiant than heard previously. Jan struts with confidence and this shows as he plays with the camera in some shots. Altogether a much less static rehearsal
In my view
If they keep this up, then the Netherlands should have no problem in qualifying for the final whatsoever for the first time in 7 years. Here’s hoping.
The opinion expressed in "In my view" are those of the author and are not necessarily the one of EuroVisionary.com.
