The band Teapacks will represent Israel at the 2007 Eurovision Song Contest in Helsinki. The decision was made earlier today by the IBA's Eurovision committee, which gathered in Tel-Aviv to decide Israel's participant for the upcoming event.

IBA's Eurovision committee made quite a surprising choice today, when it selected the band Teapacks to represent Israel in the 2007 Eurovision Song Contest in Helsinki. The band originates from the sounthern periphery of Israel. It gained popularity by bringing forward the traditional oriental music combined with light humorous hints. The soloist of the band, Kobi Oz, is well known in the country for his eccentric looks and style.

Yoav Ginai, IBA's head of delegation to the Eurovision Song Contest and the one headed the committee said to Ynet.co.il: 'Teapacks has gained quite a long artistic exprience. Kobi Oz is one of the most talented and original writers in Israel. Thats why I believe they will be able to present a unique and suitable performance. I will meet with the band in the coming days and together we will work out the schedule. The final entry will be chosen by the committee and the IBA's viewers, probably in mid February, from 4 optional songs'.

If for any reason Teapacks will refuse accepting IBA's invitation, the runner up will be either Liel Collet (who was part of Six4One, the Swiss entrants in 2006) or Michelle Goriashvilli (a participant of the latest season of the local Star Academy).

IBA's Eurovision committee included composer Kobi Oshrat (Israel 1979, 1985), Yardena Arazi (ESC hostess of 1979 and entrant in 1976 and 1988) and Dafna Dekel (ESC hostess of 1999 and entrant in 1992). According to Ynet.co.il, the mission of representing Israel was offered to Har'el Ska'at, but he declined. Israel will participate in the Eurovision Song Contest's semifinal, on May 10th.

Click 'Play' to listen to Perah Hash'hunot (Flower of the neighbourhood), Teapacks' latest hit

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yz66ZMrxsEU