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Sometimes, revolutions begin quietly.In 1988, Cowboy Junkies proved that there was an audience waiting for something quiet, beautiful and reflective. The Trinity Session was like a whisper that cut through the noise - and it was compelling. It stood out amid the flash and bombast that defined the late 80s. The Trinity Session featured the band’s unforgettable cover of the Velvet Underground’s “Sweet Jane”, and combined folk, country, blues and rock in a way that had never been heard before and went on to sell more than a million copies.
The intentional unpredictability of the Junkies’ studio recordings was reproduced magnificently throughout the night, enhanced by the red-curtained, smokescreen ambiance of the space. Everyone in attendance was taken by this lushness - Sophia Shen (Berkley B-Side)
You get great vocal work, terrific guitar playing, gorgeous lyrics and so much more at a Cowboy Junkies show. - The Mercury
The Cowboy Junkies remain one of the best bands to ever come out of Canada and have lost nothing over the years - Progressive Ears
Margot’s voice remains as strong and clear and beautiful as ever it was - along with the rest of the band, she performed beautiful songs beautifully. - Steve McCabe (The Crave Podcast)
Their ability to communicate volumes before the lyrics kick in defines an enduring career. Where most bands chase trends, the Junkies have stayed their course, maintaining a low-impact excavation of melody and evocative language delivered sotto voce in singer Margo Timmins’ feathery alto.
Formed in Toronto in 1985, Margo was joined by siblings Michael Timmins on guitar, Peter Timmins on drums, and Michael’s lifelong friend Alan Anton on bass to begin a journey that has evolved over 29 albums. “I’ve known Alan longer than I’ve known Pete,” says Michael. “We were friends before Pete was born.”
Unlike most long-lasting groups, Cowboy Junkies have never had a breakup or taken a sanity-saving hiatus. There’s an appreciation of each other that keeps them constantly working. “It’s that intimacy and understanding of what each one of us brings to the table,” says Michael. Michael, the oldest, is the chief architect; songwriter, and guitarist, who works with Margo on sculpting the emotional planes and vocal performances before bringing in younger brother Peter on drums and lifelong friend Alan Anton on bass to create the soundscapes that have made Cowboy Junkies a band who defies categories.
“The expectations and responsibilities of our roles are a big part of the band’s ethos. We’re still amazed that we’re doing things our way and continuing to grow the band, but the longer we are at it, the more fun it’s become. We don’t take it for granted,” Michael offers. “We do what we do,” Margo agrees, “and it feels right for all of us. After 30-plus years of playing together, the band and its music are more important to us than ever. The music we make brings each us a great sense of contentment, a knowledge of place, and a sense of doing what we were meant to do.”
An evening with Cowboy Junkies promises a career-spanning show, including songs from their recent album, ‘Such Ferocious Beauty’, which was released worldwide in 2023, to universal critical acclaim.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Isaac Theatre Royal, 145 Gloucester St, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand, Christchurch
Tickets
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.
