Cheap Escape by Natasha Borzilova

a Review by Amy Lotsberg Producer of Collected Sounds

Natasha Borzilova was the lead singer and acoustic guitarist of the band Bering Strait. Her website describes them as "a group of classically trained child prodigies in the late 1980's."(sic) I was not familiar with them, other than knowing there was a band by that name. But most of the stuff I've read says they were country/bluegrass.

I'd say this record is more folk-pop, but you certainly can hear some of those influences here.

She has a very strong voice. It has quite a variety to it. I can actually hear her singing genres other than these as well. I can actually hear her doing more of a rock thing. This came to me hearing Real Fight which borders on that and sounds great. Her voice is more powerful than the material here I think. But I still like the whole package.

The title track, Cheap Escape is more folksy in nature and has nice backing vocals.

Don't Stop has some great piano work, and it really rocks out!

This is a strong album, and I like it, but I think I would also like to hear her do more rock flavored stuff, her voice suits it.

Posted on April 15, 2008