To date, there have been 1,758 entries in the Eurovision Song Contest history. As Eurofans, we may only know these artists from one or two songs, but every artist that has performed at the contest has an extensive backlog. This series, Beyond Eurovision, aims to shine a light on some of the That Eurovision Site team’s favourite Eurovision artists’ discographies. Today, we look at Ochman, who represented Poland at Eurovision 2022.
Who is Ochman?
American-born Polish singer Krystian Ochman came to prominence after winning the 11th season of The Voice of Poland back in 2021. The grandson of Polish tenor Wiesław Ochman, Ochman’s work features heavy usage of operatic vocals in a modern way, contrasting and complimented heavily with his usage of classical crossover styles of music.
Era 1: First album ‘Ochman’
Era 2: Eurovision
The next era of Ochman’s career came shortly after with his appearance on Poland’s selection for Eurovision 2022 Tu bije serce Europy! Wybieramy hit na Eurowizję!. His entry River won the gold final of the show with an impressive 51% of the vote, and went on to come 12th overall in Turin. His Eurovision entry was a continuation of the dark and heavier elements in his music.
This piece was much more stripped back when compared to his earlier work, with the beat built primarily from a simplistic piano contrasted with a heavy and dramatic violin section. The lyrical content is simplistic, and heavily repetitive, but that is not to say that it isn’t truly moving. The repetition here highlights the depth in the meaning and really made it the most moving entry at that year’s contest. I won’t hide the fact that this was easily my favourite entry of the year, and one of my all time favourite Eurovision entries.
Era 3: ‘Testament’
A far more modern approach when compared to the earlier work Testament leans more into Ochman’s rap side, with the operatic vocals taking a back seat. This album is full of some of the great beats that one would come to expect in his music. Sweeter vocals do still feature in the album. One such example comes in Bittersweet, with his softer voice working as great contrast to Opał’s more gruffer sound. Another song to highlight is Telefony. This one is quite the contrast to the rest of his music. Almost leaning into the summer soft listening style that’s truly easy listening.
Era 4: ‘Klasycznie’
When I heard that Ochman was doing another classically focused album I was ecstatic The intro to this one was rather strange, but when you first hear Nie ma szans you can immediately hear how great Ochman is when he really tries to showcase his operatic vocals. This new album is a perfect contrast to his debut album that was much heavier and darker, with Klasycznie taking a more easy listening approach to this album, but the depth and power in his vocals is still staunchly present. I’d like to highlight Gdy nikt nie widzi. While not the best song on this album it is perhaps the most obvious example of the previously stated point. The heavy focus on the soft piano element compliment, but also highlight the power in his vocals so well, leading to an almost 80s-lite style of modern power ballad.
Why you should check him out
If the previously stated gushing over how great Ochman is isn’t fully explaining it then let me summarise. Ochman is perhaps the best classical crossover musician I’ve ever encountered. If you want powerful male vocals, with some of the most heart wrenching backing tracks ever, contrasted with some of the finest rap of the modern age, then check him out.
What do you think of Ochman’s discography? As always, let us know what you think by commenting below. Also, be sure to follow ‘That Eurovision Site’ on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads and Bluesky for all your Eurovision news!
Photo Credit: Krystian Ochman, via Instagram