The grand final of Latvia’s ‘Supernova’ takes place tomorrow evening, and we will soon know who will be representing Latvia in Tel Aviv.
Over the past few weeks we have been chatting to the artists competing for the Latvian ticket to Eurovision. The latest in that series is rock group Laime Pilniga, who qualified from the first semi-final with their song ‘Awe’
Hi guys, congratulations on making it to the final of Supernova, and thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to talk to us! As a band, you are well established with three very successful studio albums already. What made you decide to enter Supernova this year?, is it something you have thought about for a long time?
We see it as a great opportunity to represent the Latvian rock scene to an international audience and this year we have a good message to deliver.
Being such a well-established rock band, and very much used to performing in big arenas in front of large crowds. How have you managed the change to performing in a studio, with cameras and a seated audience? – do you have to do anything different to generate the right vibe?
‘Yes, playing in front of cameras is different, but experience we have gained performing live shows helps us a lot. Also we use specific know-hows how to bring live performance feel in studio conditions.‘
How did you find the semi-final experience?. Were you surprised about how anything went and any of the acts that didn’t progress?
‘We were focused on our inner processes and our performance and we were not surprised that we managed to get to finals, but we were very glad that we ended up first.’
How was the feedback from the panel? – will you be changing anything as a result of anything that was said?
‘The panel was very objective and yes, all the things were heard and our performance definitely will be improved in finals’
Can you tell us a bit more about the song. Is there a particular message within the song and where did the inspiration for it come from?
‘The story behind the song is based on a dream. Energy, inspiration, happiness and and fear, all results in awe.’
Interestingly, Marcis has managed to make it through not only with Laime Pilniga, but also with Carousel, and so has two songs in the final. Will that be difficult to manage two performances, and double the preparation?
No, Marcis has superpowers, so he could manage to take part in all 8 final acts if necessary.
You have toured with many different bands and artists in the past – who have been your favourites to work with, and who would you say were your biggest influences in music?
‘There is no chance not to be influenced by any artist you listen or perform with, you either take good stuff or find out what not to do.‘
Do you have any other big plans for 2019 and beyond? – other than keeping time free for Tel Aviv. Any new projects or an album perhaps?
‘We’re now working on upcoming album and tour which follows’
Thank you so much for your time. We look forward to seeing you in Riga and best of luck in the competition!
You can watch Laime Pilniga’s semifinal performance of ‘Awe’ again right here:
Who is your favourite to win Supernova, you can still vote in our poll:
