It’s a big and wonderful world out there even if the many and myriad barriers that currently exist would suggest otherwise. Music, fortunately, knows nothing of borders and, with some digital assistance, “Indistinct Songs” – “невнятные песни” - by Nastasia Khrushcheva (Настасья Хрущёва) made the journey from Russia to my ears.
I was expecting something more akin to the modern classical style from these “baroque strategies for two violins and a piano” but these are most definitely steeped in the traditions of classical music with everything being presented with dignity, eloquence and a clean and clear musical intent. My fondness for the violin is well known – if only to me and Tchaikovsky – and Roman Vikulov and Polina Lundstrem (Полина Лундстрем ) do not disappoint with their performances showing both control that never borders on the claustrophobic and a coherence that is never used as a substitute for conformity. That combination of technical skills and interpretative skills serves these pieces well with Nastasia Khrushcheva’s robust, even spirited, piano style completing these most eloquent performances.
If the translation of the press release is to be considered accurate, the inspiration for this album was melodies from traditional Russian folk music. My knowledge of Russian folk music is somewhat limited – perhaps yours is too? – yet that matters not a lot for, with this album, Nastasia Khrushcheva has reminded us that music crosses borders because that is how it is meant to be.
Available as a download from Bandcamp and the usual digital places.