Ireland

Molly's bringing the first contemporary indie ballad in this second semi final, and you know what this is really growing on me.

The setting is absolutely gorgeous with its forest backdrop, covered in a early sunlight.

However Molly doesn't connect with the camera's much and that's a real shame... Perhaps we'll see more interaction in the second run through.

I really do think it's necessary for an artist to be able to connect at several stages throughout their performance. Unless that proves, I'm a little worried Molly might not advance to the final, despite delivering vocally.

The time Ireland was once a great Eurovision nation, securing 7 victories in a very small period of time, is well and truly gone.

There was a shimmer of hope when Molly Sterling was appointed in February to perform her song 'Playing With Numbers'. Not that it is a winner's song, but for Ireland's merits it was different and something fresh to send to the contest.

Molly's first rehearsal really lacks in connecting with the audience. The backdrop, contrary to last year, suits the song beautifully. (it's an open space in a forest, being kissed by the sun and therefore in warm golden colour) and Molly's voice is great too... BUT, and it's a big but, there's just no emotional connection coming from Molly.

During the first two runs, there was a brief shimmer in the second one where Molly briefly looked into the camera swirling around her. Apart from that there is just no connection with the viewers at home. Now, she's performing she's playing the piano, or at least giving the impression she is, but I would expect her by now to be able to know how to do that and focus on convincing the audiences.

I'm not gonna lie, I am currently frustrated with Ireland, because I do believe they have a great song which is final worthy, but right now without that emotional connection Ireland lacks majorly.

Ireland, Cinq Points.

What a sunny performance. It feels like you are in the woods listening to a nice piece of music with life orchestra!!!

The stage is fully occupied by the musicians - Molly on the piano, drums, cello, contrabass and two backing vocals. I like it but the only minus is that Molly is not communicating with her audience enough. It seems she's singing and playing for herself only. This should be improved.

Well Molly can sing her little socks off, this is a given, and it seems RTE have got the staging right this year after the terrible problems last year

This is underrated for me, singer-songewriter should do very well for them, but in the car crash semi this might get lost :-(

She looks amazing though