Let's Review! William's take on all the UMK 2026 songs

Finland’s UMK takes place this evening in Tampere, another Super-Saturday! Here is William Montilla's personal ranking ahead of the final.

Tampere is calling, and Europe is listening. UMK is the national selection that has certainly been revamped, and it has reached broader recognition among eurofans. Just a decade ago, it was widely ignored (even at a national level), and after a few consecutive non-qualification years it became evident that something had to change… and Yle has without a doubt delivered.

In the last ten years, UMK has produced two top-10 entries (which should have been three, including Erika Vikman, according to the humble opinion of this amateur reporter). Also, at the moment of writing this review, with all UMK songs released, Finland is second in the odds to win this year. The message is loud and clear: “Finland has become an actual contender and is here to stay.”

After this short introduction, let’s dissect this year’s entries.

Komiat – 'Lululai'

William Montilla: "A catchy rhythm, decent vocals, and charming performers can help this entry captivate part of the audience. I can see how this could be a great song for many. However, it is without a doubt something we have all seen and heard several times before. Is it well done? Yes, absolutely. Is it deserving of representing Finland? That remains to be seen."

Etta – 'Million Dollar Smile'

William Montilla: "Etta is a great artist with a lot to say and an inspiring message that certainly comes across in this song, in which she expresses some of the challenges she endured growing up with her medical condition. This music style is very far from the genres I usually listen to, and to be honest, it took more than a couple of listens for this song to really click, but now it is one of my favorites of the year. Will this be a winner? Doubtful, but it is an excellent example of the growing rap scene in Finland."

Kiki – 'Rakkaudenkipee'

William Montilla: "Here we have what is perhaps the best vocalist of this year’s contest. KIKI’s voice is a gift, and Rakkaudenkipee pairs it with a very catchy, radio-friendly song. It keeps you hooked from start to finish and takes you on a journey. Strong lyrics and incredible potential to elevate the song even further live make this another serious contender to take it all and fly the Finnish flag at ESC this year."

Antti Paalanen – 'Takatukka'

William Montilla: "UMK has had its fair share of “quirky and fun” entries in recent years, some of outstanding quality, like Käärijä, and others that failed to deliver anything beyond a joke entry. This one leans closer to the latter group, and we will have to wait and see at Nokia Arena whether Antti has something more to offer beyond a bad-joke haircut and an overused accordion chord."

Chachi – 'Cherry Cake'

William Montilla: "CHACHI has a magnetic personality, and her charisma truly translates into this song. It is fun, catchy, and engaging. We know that her strongest asset does not lie in her vocal abilities but rather in her dancing prowess, so we will have to wait for the live performance to see what she brings to the stage. Hopefully, we are in for a treat in Tampere."

Sinikka Monte – 'Ready To Leave'

William Montilla: "Sinikka is a great vocalist with a sweet voice full of potential. This song sits somewhere between a soft ballad and a radio-friendly pop track, and it falls short of fully committing to either. It is a good song, but it gets lost among this year’s competitors, and its lack of memorability is perhaps its biggest sin."

Linda Lampenius & Pete Parkkonen – 'Liekinheitin'

William Montilla: "Where can one start? This song is chaotic in the best possible way. It mixes Linda’s impressive violin skills with constantly changing rhythms and genres. Pete’s strong vocal delivery makes this entry outstanding and captivating. It has great staging potential, and that is where they will have to prove that the song can translate live the emotional roller coaster presented in the studio version. Personally, one of my favorites to win in Tampere this year."

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