Whites Off Earth Now, Mobile Fidelity Remaster
Canadian band Cowboy Junkies released their first album in 1986. They had no fat record company deal, only their instruments, a garage named Studio 547, a single microphone with a digital tape machine and Margo's voice. This re-mastered CD version from Mobile Fidelity’s Original Master Recordings series and has been re-released on a hybrid CD/SACD disc. The audio quality is outstanding.
The Cowboy Junkies tradition of sparse, blues-based songs is fully evident here. Margo Timmins vocals are quietly expressive on this collection of covers from blues artists as Lightning Hopkins and Robert Johnson and rocker Bruce Springsteen. Brothers Mike (lead guitar) and Pete Timmins (drums) along with long time friend Alan Anton (bass) complete the foursome. Sparse guitar, bass and drums support her quiet vocal style perfectly. Example, the the final song, Robert Johnson’s Crossroads. Its so quiet its almost scary.
Since this album was released the Cowboy Junkies have continued to tour and to release many albums. Some such as The Trinity Session have been ground-breaking albums. They moved into a bit more mainstream direction with the top-selling Lay It Down but have never left their preference for slower country and blues based tunes. As many band have experienced though, the Cowboy Junkies broke true new ground with their first album. This remastered version is a blues and musical masterpiece.
Thank you for visiting and reading Hear More Music!
Doug