Eurovision in Liverpool is fast-approaching! In the run-up to rehearsals we will be getting to know a little more about this year’s artists, their discography and their Eurovision journey so far. The final act we will be previewing is Australia’s Voyager.
Voyager’s Eurovision journey so far
Following their second place in Australia Decides last year, SBS internally selected Voyager as their entry for Eurovision 2023. The song was revealed in February. In an interview with The Guardian, Estrin shared that the band received the news in a video call:
“The production team was like, just spitballing it out there, how would you see the staging?” Estrin says. Each band member shared what they imagined their ideal Eurovision performance would look like. “Then it was like, good news, because you are going to be representing Australia.
And we all went: ‘What!’ It was one of those moments where you almost fall off your chair.”
Daniel Estrin, Voyager
Voyager will close the second semi-final on 11th May.
Despite the long journey from their home nation, Voyager performed at PrePartyES in Madrid, Eurovision in Concert and London Eurovision Party.
What do we think of “Promise”
The team at That Eurovision Site has been doing their reviews for this year’s contest. Angus and Janek gave their thoughts on “Promise”, which you can see here.
Who are Voyager?
Voyager was formed in 1999 by a group of friends studying at the University of Western Australia. The current line-up consists of Daniel Estrin (vocals and keyboard), Simone Dow (guitar), Scott Kay (guitar), Alex Canion (bass) and Ashley Doodkorte (drums). Estrin, an immigration lawyer by day, is the only original member of the band remaining in the line-up.
The band’s first album, Element V, was released in 2003. It was picked up by Dutch label DVS Records for European distribution, which saw the band begin their international success. The next years saw them play at prog and metal festivals across Europe, including ProgPower. Their second album, uniVers, was distributed across the USA by Locomotive Records, and saw widespread acclaim. They have released a total of seven records – the most recent being 2019’s Colours In The Sun. In addition, they have toured with a number of major European bands including Epica, Nightwish, Klone and Children of Bodom.
Voyager have set their sights on representing Australia at Eurovision since the nation was invited to the contest in 2015. The band were shortlisted as participants for national selection Australia Decides in 2020, but were not ultimately invited to compete. They tried again in 2022 with “Dreamer”, where they finished in second place – third with the jury and first in the televote.
In an interview with Eurovision Fam, Estrin discussed the inspiration behind “Promise”:
“I’m generally an optimist, but the last couple of years have been difficult for many and seeing the chaos of the world, it’s about seeing what’s around you and seeking reassurance from whatever you can find. Doesn’t have to be a person, it can be nature, a person, a beautiful song, a picture that you can derive some joy and find certainty that it’s going to be alright.
“The song has a super dark moment where that hope is crushed and you’re left down and unhappy, but in a way, like life itself, you find a way out of it and emerge on the other side.”
Daniel Estrin, Voyager
“Promise” has lyrics written by Estrin, with music by all members of the band.
Australia’s Eurovision journey
Australia debuted into the Eurovision Song Contest in 2015, with Guy Sebastian representing the land down-under with his entry “Tonight Again”, finishing in 5th place. Since their debut, they have participated every single year. In 2022, Australia was represented by Sheldon Riley, with his song “Not the Same”. He qualified for the final and finished 15th, with 125 points.
What do you think of Promise? Can Voyager bring Australia their first win? Let us know your thoughts! Also, be sure to follow “That Eurovision Site” on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok as we prepare for Eurovision 2023!
News Source: That Eurovision Site/Voyager
Photo Credit: Mike Dann
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