Later today, 8th November, at 13.30 Eastern European Time, the Finnish broadcaster YLE will hold a press conference to announce the artists running for Finland�s national national selection show.
A lot of names have been tipped around the web lately and much speculation has taken place. Names such as PMMP, Hanna Pakarinen, Anna Eriksson , Antti Tuisku, Sunrise Avenue, Annika Eklund, Apocalyptica, Don Johnson Big Band, HIM, Indica 17 , Tarja Turunen, Tiktak, Agnes, Arja Saijonmaa, Dallas Superstars, Paula Koivuniemi, The Rasmus, Firevision, Lauri Tahka & Elonkerjuu, Olavi Uusivirta have been heard numerous times. All participating artists had been sworn to secrecy though so nothing has been confirmed so far.
Lordi, HIM as well as Antti Tuisku (Idols runner up and particularly popular in Finland) will not be taking part, as they stated so themselves.
Jaana , Heikki and a “Wild” card
All 4 semis as well as the final will be hosted by Jaana Pelkonen and Heikki Paasonen. The former is a popular TV presenter with considerable experience in live broadcasting, the latter has hosted several national selection competitions as well as a chart show and Finnish Pop Idol.
Finnish comedian-musician Simo Frangen will be a news reader in all 4 semi-finals. Now, Simo is well known in Finland but opinions are divided. Many fans look down on his comic style whereas others feel it will be a pleasant and refreshing note. As well as a comedian, Mr Frangen is part of the popular group Alivaltiosihteeri, a guitar rock band with funny, stinging lyrics. Their radio shows have created a trend in Finland as they specialise in anagrams and palindromes.
Esctoday will be reporting for you as soon as the news is available, so stay tuned!
