Exquisite sound quality, excellent live performance
Nadyne Mielke | Mountain View, CA USA | 03/30/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"To fully experience some bands, you need to see them live in concert. Cowboy Junkies are an excellent example of this type of band. Don't get me wrong: their albums are meticulously crafted masterpieces. But as good as their studio albums are, their live performances simply blow them away. The band is tightly-knit, resulting in concerts that feel like they're simply chatting with some friends while effortlessly creating their signature sound."In the Time Before Llamas" captures two performances in the UK in 1990 and 1992. Both of these performances boast exquisite sound quality. The vocals are crisp and clear, the band never sounds muddy. The tracklisting showcases both sides of the band: the slow, sad, meloncholy side, and the faster, rocking side. It's hard to pick a high point of this album. Lead singer Margo Timmins' voice saunters through "Me and the Devil". "Sun Comes Up, It's Tuesday Morning" shows how songwriter Michael Timmins can perfectly capture an emotion. "Sweet Jane" is a chance for the tightly-knit band to show off their chops. If you are a fan of the Cowboy Junkies, this is an excellent album to purchase. It's not quite as good as seeing them live, but at least it gives you a taste of a concert.If you are new to the Cowboy Junkies, I wouldn't necessarily recommend this as a good introduction. It's not a bad introduction, and certainly provides a pretty good overview of their early career. For a studio album, I would recommend either "Studio" (a collection of tracks through 1996's "Lay It Down"), or the seminal "The Trinity Sessions") (their breakthrough album, which features their cover of "Sweet Jane"). And, no matter what, take the opportunity to see them live. They travel pretty extensively. You can find tour dates on their website, as well as a tour diarywhen they're on the road. (In case you were curious about the title, it is a bit of an in-joke between the band and members of the message board on the band's website. On that message board, fans are called 'llamas'. People who talk at concerts are called 'geese'.)"
Track Listings (17) - Disc #1