Watch Cowboy Junkies - The Trinity Sessions Revisited

Cowboy Junkies are one of the most iconic folk and blues rock bands of the past few decades, and their album The Trinity Sessions is considered by many to be their magnum opus. The album was recorded in a single day in 1987, in the Holy Trinity Church in Toronto, with a single microphone and no overdubs. It features a series of classic covers of traditional blues, country and gospel songs, as well as some original compositions. Now, over thirty years later, Cowboy Junkies have returned to the church to record a new version of the album. This movie documents the entire process.

The Trinity Sessions Revisited is a deeply intimate and personal journey, chronicling the band as they re-record the seminal album in the same church in which it was originally created. The band members, Michael Timmins, Margo Timmins, Peter Timmins and Alan Anton, all speak candidly about their experiences with the record, as well as what motivated them to revisit it. They discuss how they originally came to record The Trinity Sessions, the challenges they faced in the studio, and the response it garnered upon its release. There is a great deal of insight offered into not only the record itself, but the band's creative process, which is truly fascinating.

But the film is not just about the band members' experiences - it's also about the music itself. We get to see the recording process in action, from the initial rehearsals to the final takes. Many of the songs are recorded live, with no overdubs or editing, much like the original album. This gives the film a sense of rawness and immediacy that perfectly captures the energy of Cowboy Junkies' music. The band is also joined by a host of guest musicians, including Ryan Adams, Natalie Merchant, and Vic Chesnutt, who add their own unique twists to the songs.

The film also addresses some of the more technical aspects of the recording process. We see how the band utilizes vintage microphones and analogue equipment to capture the warmth and depth of the sound. There is a real focus on the importance of the space the band is recording in as well - Holy Trinity Church resonates with a distinctively haunting quality that perfectly suits Cowboy Junkies' music.

Throughout the film, Cowboy Junkies reflect on how the songs have aged over the course of thirty-plus years, and what the album means to them today. They discuss how their own interpretations of the songs have evolved, and how they've come to view them in a different light. There is a real sense of reverence for the original album, but also a recognition that, as they are different people now, they will inevitably craft a different experience for a modern audience.

Ultimately, what sets this film apart is the sense of community and collaboration that is evident throughout. The Trinity Sessions Revisited is not just a re-recording of an old album, but a celebration of music, art, and the creative process. The musicians come together, exchanging ideas and influences, and forging connections that will continue well beyond the recording studio. The film captures this spirit perfectly, making it a must-see for fans of Cowboy Junkies, or anyone interested in the magic of creating great music.