The Eurovision Song Contest's Ukrainian representatives, TVORCHI, were ready to tackle the political responsibilities they knew the role would bring.
The electronic heavyweights follow in the steps of Eurovision royalty Ruslana, Jamala and most recently Kalush Orchestra in their attempt to lift the contest trophy. Ukraine has a long lineage of topical, revolutionary and cultural bangers at Eurovision and TVORCHI's entry, Heart of Steel, is no different.
After they stormed their country's national selection competition, Vidbir, it was smooth sailing to the top of the fan leaderboards where they sat comfortably for months.
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The fame and adoration from across Europe was naturally well received but when TVORCHI spoke to the ECHO, they were humble enough to admit there was a more important job to be done than winning over fans.
Jeffrey Kenny said: "Our main mission was to perform and spread our message to inspire people. It means a lot to us and we are honoured."
Andrii Hutsuliak added: "We understood what came with us winning so we know what we want to do in our mission. We understand what we have on our shoulders, our responsibility and we know what to do with it. There's no pressure but we have our focus and attention on important things."
Liverpool's promise to Ukraine as the host city included accurate and extensive representations of culture, music, art, heritage and stories which have transformed the region entirely. The EuroFestival includes a programme of 24 unique commissions celebrating the nation with the results touching the hearts of TVORCHI.
Discussing Liverpool's transformation and dedication to Ukraine, Andrii said: "We actually really appreciate the UK for making this happen in Liverpool and it means a lot for all Ukrainians. We saw some pictures and what's going on already is very exciting. There's a very good representation of what's going on now [in Ukraine] and it's good that [Liverpool] is able to bring light to this situation in such a very artistic way."
Jeffrey saidd he was a fan of the Protect the Beats project [the large-scale public artwork that sees sandbags added to a well known Liverpool landmark] and the Soloveiko Songbirds [inflated birds dotted around the city], both of which are striking and touching tributes to Ukrainian sculptures and life, but most notably he was keen to try some of the local delicacies.
During last year's contest, The Ukrainian spirit was kept alive with music and saw fans voting directly from the bunkers in support of their favourite acts. Jeffrey said the same passion is prevalent, he said: "Everyone has a main focus which is to do whatever they can just to keep things rolling and to help the country as much as they can.
"So everybody's just doing what they can try to keep the life alive and around their cities but it's definitely difficult to not focus on the war situation, but I think people are watching it. A lot of people are involved" Andrii added: "Everyone is doing their part like volunteering, raising funds and helping the military and civilians, and then you can also come together to watch the contest. I hope in the future we can just focus on the music."
As they gear up to head to Liverpool, TVORCHI received a few words of wisdom from Ukraine's past female winners but haven't managed to get in touch with Kalush Orchestra due to their busy schedules. Recalling the moment the moment he was starstruck to meet Ruslana, Andrii said: "I remember when I was a kid watching the Eurovision Song Contest on TV, and I didn't realise what's going on because I was small, I thought she was like Xena Princess warrior.
"And she was so amazing in real life. We were so excited to gain some advice, gain some support, and we appreciate it a lot. Also, Jamala said a lot of wise words to us too."
Initially hiding what the previous winners told them, Andrii eventually added: "They told us a few private secrets about how to perform, be nice, don't worry, your best. They were both amazing."
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