ESCXTRA are live from Lisbon for day 1 of rehearsals ahead of the Eurovision Song Contest 2018! The countries rehearsing today, in chronological order, are Azerbaijan, Iceland, Albania, Belgium, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Israel, Belarus, Estonia and Bulgaria.
We’re streaming live from the press centre
Furthermore, read our handy guide for a more detailed look at this contest’s rehearsal schedule.
In addition, for our immediate reactions to every single rehearsal, you can follow our live stream from the press centre at the Altice Arena by visiting our YouTube channel.
The latest artist to rehearse is Eugent Bushpepa from Albania. We have just watched their first run through of Mall live on screen and here is our initial reaction.
Staging
The Albanian delegation have their full quota of performers on stage, with Eugent backed by two female backing vocalists, a drummer and two guitarists. The guitarists begin the performance to the side of the stage, joining Eugent by the first chorus. At this point, the lighting switches from a dark blue into red and black which brightens up the performance.
Vocals
Eugent’s vocals are faultless as always, and his confidence is soaring as he tries several new notes throughout the performance. Of course, his now legendary final high note is present and correct!
Costumes
All of the Albanian performers are in black ensembles, Eugent himself in a black blazer and white shirt. The female backing vocalists are in smart black dresses, with the band in black leather outfits.
Watch the rehearsal!
Stay tuned for our reaction to Sennek as they rehearse A Matter of Time next for Belgium. If you want to know what to expect for the rest of the day, check out our rehearsal schedule here. Meanwhile, remember to tune in to our live stream from the press centre for instant reactions to each rehearsal.
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