The Big Review (22) Malta

Let's hear it for plucky little Malta, a country so enthusiastic about Eurovision despite some very mixed fortunes. I loved the quirkiness of this when I first heard. Whilst it's not my favourite song this year, it has charm and Gianluca, like Kurt last year, has charisma and I think it'll come across well on the night. Gianluca also has a good back story - he's just qualified as a doctor (a real one, unlike me!) I would dearly love Malta to win one year. I'm not sure 2013 will be their year however some are tipping this as a possible dark horse. I don't think it will disgrace the Maltese and should easily provide them with a place in the final again.

Qualifying: Yes

The Big Review (21) Finland

Eurovision is a funny old world. When I heard this for the first time I really didn't like it. Far too Katy Perry and I found it all a little bit irritating. Having seen it live at the London Eurovision Preview Party, I now love it! It's catchy, well-performed and the ode to equal marriage is inspired. I think this could be a potential dark horse. If it gets a good draw, after the many ballads...

Qualifying: Yes

The Big Review (20) Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan know how to do Eurovision. They know what works, they have a loyal voting base and will probably always qualify. Farid is a good singer and he's pretty easy on the eye too which always helps. "Hold Me" is a fairly standard ballad but it's well-performed and catchy. With no Turkey this year, I expect Azerbaijan to mop up some of their votes and can see the juries going for this too. Baku 2012 was a year to remember and despite the serious questions it raised, I would have no problem returning there. I think a top 5 for this is not out of the question.

Qualifying: Yes

The Big Review (19) FYR Macedonia

After the class act that was Kaliopi last year, FYR Macedonia have opted for something a little different. This is bonkers and I love it! The female vocalist, Esma, makes this for me. The song itself is a tad dull but the memorable performance from Esma gives this a much-needed boost and for that reason I can see this getting a slot in the final. Stranger things have happened.

Qualifying: Yes

The Big Review (18) San Marino

She's back! When it was announced that Valentina Monetta was representing San Marino again there was speculation as to which social network she would pay homage to. My money was on Grindr! The rumours that Lys Assia was flying the flag for the small country proved to be wrong. This song couldn't be further from "The Social Network Song" from 2012. "Crisalide" is a belting ballad which builds for two minutes and then goes all up-tempo towards the end. Initially I thought it took away from the power of the song but having seen it live, it seems to work well. Valentina can really sing, and perform. This surely San Marino's best chance to qualify to the final. Of course Mr Siegel is still involved but this time, he's forgiven.

Qualifying: Yes

The Big Review (17) Latvia

After the Beautiful Song from Latvia last year they enter something which, well, isn't. I like the energy of this song and think it's a good opener for the second semi-final. However it doesn't really go anywhere after the first chorus. Still, it's not bad, it's just not great either. I think it will be another year without Latvia in the final, particularly since this semi is seen as the stronger one by many.

Qualifying: No

The Big Review (16) Serbia

Since their debut and victory in 2007 (well sort of in 2004) Serbia have proved that they know how to "do" Eurovision. Last year they sent the very classy Zelkjo Joksimovic. This year they've opted for something a little, well, less classy. Moje 3 look like girls who know how to have a good time. Their song translates as "love is everywhere". I'm sure it is! When I first saw this I was aghast at how trashy it was, however, I have now grown to love this. I'm not sure if the juries will though and with only a few neighbours to count on, it looks like Serbia might just miss out on a place in the final this year.

Qualifying: No