The Cowboy Junkies are celebrating the twentieth anniversary of Trinity Sessions by re-recording it with a bevy of guest stars including Vic Chessnut, Natalie Merchant, and Ryan Adams. I have not heard it, and who knows- it might just kick an already brilliant record up a notch. However, I'm wondering why they felt like they needed to re-record it. It was pretty close to perfect as it was.
Trinity Sessions in it's original form was a victory of the sublime. Margo Timmins rarely sang above much more than a whisper, brother Michae's guitar was spare as can be, and the other musical accompaniement of brushes and accordion was very understated. While many records nowadays literally as well as figuratively wave their tits in your face, the Junkies came from a quieter place. They wern't trying to take over the world or prove that they were the sexiest or loudest or most controversial, they quietly seduced you.
What's more- it was a victory of the moment. It wasn't some megastar record that took two years to record with a big-name producer. It was recorded in one day in that famous church with just one mike. They nailed it- all the universe coming together for them that day. But like other "victories of the moment", it is unlikely you ever hit it again. The Junkies were not a one-hit wonder. They produced and still continue to produce quality music and still have a decent following. However, they will probably never again hit that sublime magic that they did on Trinity Sessions. Even more reason to leave it be. It's one thing to re-release it with some bonus tracks or a DVD or something, but re-recording it just seems wrong.
One thing I read said they should've recorded a new batch of songs in that old church. that would've been better. perhaps a cynical marketing ploy a la UB40's many Labor of Loves. But still preferable to re-recording it. Now the Junkies probably aren't out for the big bucks or the cheap comeback, but they still should've left Trinity Sessions alone. it is perfect just as it is.
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