Written by Willie Campbell, Scotland’s entrant into Liet International.
Firstly, thanks so much for the opportunity to perform at this year’s Liet songs. The show itself was of a really high standard with a great stage manager and crew who were very patient and gave everybody lots of time to get organised. My slot during the dress rehearsal didn’t go that well. My settings on pedals had been changed due to lots of quick shunting about, so they let me have another shot at soundcheck, which I really appreciated.
There was a full day of sound checks and tech organisation the day before dress rehearsal and actual show. It was quite slickly done for the most part.
There was a good vibe between the groups that were performing, all friendly and enjoying the experience. Some were maybe taking the competition aspect of it more seriously than others. I got on great with the 2 girls that were singing in Sami language, they were Called Aila-Duo (they came second). I will be honest and tell you my heart sank a little bit when i heard that we would have to stand in front of the stage and listen to our marks from individual Judges. For me, it kind of put a downer on what was other wise a really great experience as I was marked so low for my song. I came second last and thought for most of the time marks were being given i was going to be last. Made me sweat a bit, i can tell you!
After being round the block a few times I am aware and critical of myself, I believe I performed my song well but for whatever reason it did not click with the judges. I used a variety of pedals to flesh out the sound, avoiding using anything pre-recorded to maintain a live vibe. There was also an award for the musicians.
I played second during the show, after a 22 piece band called El Trasno who sang in Galician-Asturian. They were placed 3rd from the bottom on the table and i thought they were very good.
We were very well looked after during our time in Oldenburg, the food provided was great and so was the Hotel.
Great to have Alex Macdonald with me, Alex was the Scottish judge, we had a fab time.
Maybe worth noting for any bands travelling KLM – Air France that they no longer have a baggage allowance. I was charged £79 out and 100 euros on the way home.
Thanks again. It was a lot of fun.
WIllie Campbell