Recorded live in November 1987 at Church of the Holy Trinity in Toronto (and hence “The Trinity Session”), this was the Cowboy Junkies’ second album. The track listing is made up of a number of self-penned tunes, a couple of traditional songs and a few cover versions. I never would have thought it possible that songs by Lou Reed and Hank Williams could appear on the same album without sounding at odds with each other…yet that is exactly what the band have achieved.

There are so many outstanding tracks on this CD it’s hard to pick out the highlights. The two traditional tunes – “Mining for Gold” and “Working on a Building” – would certainly be among my favourites. “Mining for Gold” opens the album, and is sung unaccompanied by Margo.

It was “Blue Moon Revisited” that first brought the band to my attention…it’s a beautifully laid back number with a hint of sadness and regret. “Sweet Jane”, written by Lou Reed, has been referred to as the band’s signature tune. Alan’s bass, again, contributes greatly to the mood on both songs.

Of the songs written solely by members of the bands, “Postcard Blues” and “Misguided Angel” are, for me, the best. A guest musician, Steve Shearer, provides the harmonica on the former – a contribution that allows the song to live up to its name.

The album was captured live, using a single microphone and cost only CDN $250 to record. It’s also a great example of how keeping production work to a minimum can, at times, help the album. Admittedly, the quality of the songwriting, the playing and the singing is also a big help !