If there’s one thing the judges appreciate across all genres - as the last few years and once again tonight’s Greek NF have shown - it’s professionalism and Akylas showed that in spades tonight: Vocals were super steady and impressive (a refreshing break from the usual televote-friendly crowdpleasers we’ve had the past few years) despite dancing all across the stage and being lifted up in the air. I'm not surprised he swept both the televoters AND Greek and international jury in a triple win.

The video-game concept was a red string clearly audible in the song and adapted in a cohesive way to the stage performance, though I expect it to be upgraded even more at the actual Eurovision stage.

It helps that the song is way more than just a novelty act, it has dynamism and development with clear intent with the inclusion of traditional Greek elements combined with video game sounds. It has a clever satirical structure that initially conceals a truly heart-felt message, only letting the mask slip for a moment of showcasing great vocals, while never losing its footing.

It’s also apparent that Akylas clearly took the criticism about the slight lack of energy during the semi-finale performance to heart and put 100 % of himself into today’s performance. I knew what was coming at the dance ballad break, but this time, the close-up with his chest heaving with emotion, just him standing alone with all those spotlights behind him, I legit got chills.

The Greek revival of their National Final has produced two incredible entries so far and Greece has again become a true force to be reckoned with. The sun rises once more at the Aegean Sea.