Mahaiwe, Great Barrington, MA
March 8, 2014
by Eric Sutter
"There are always ways to shine
without gold" is a line from the song "Take Heart" on
the Cowboy Junkies latest recording "Kennedy Suite." It is
music that commemorates the 50th anniversary of the assassination of
JFK. The song's lyrics are rambling thoughts from the perspective of
a motorcycle cop's mind on that fateful day. This Canadian band of
diverse musical influence performed at the Mahaiwe while on their
Nomad Tour in support of their latest music.
Margo Timmins is an accomplished
vocalist who, along with her brothers Michael on guitar, Peter on
drums and Alan Anton on bass, has pursued an artistic vision of
brutally honest music from light and darker realms. In particular,
the lyrical angst of "F##k, I Hate The Cold" testified.
"We Are Selfish" featured
voice, strummed acoustic and multi-instrumentalist Jeff Bird's
harmonica. He proved a valuable asset whether on harmonica, mandolin
or percussion. "Demons" worked a quiet intensity with
Timmins' vocals out front. "Damaged From The Start" was a
relationship song about bruised and battered hearts. On the lighter
side was "Late Night Radio."
The second half of the concert featured
more familiar music and covers. Jeff Bird's harmonica played a
prominent role in "Cheap Is How I Feel." Alt-country mixed
naturally with blues, folk and rock styles. "Cutting Board
Blues" and "Angel Mine" showcased acoustic guitar love
ballads from different lyrical viewpoints. Timmons spoke of her love
of Bruce Springsteen and performed an intense cover of "Thunder
Road" from 2004's "One Soul Now." The cover of Velvet
Underground's "Sweet Jane" was true to their ethereal hit
sound from 1989. Another song from that period, "Blue Moon
Revisited (Song For Elvis)" conjured the imagery of yearned
heartfelt feelings for true love. The star's unique voice and deeply
affected blues harp kept the music lively. Cowboys' encore of
countryman's Neil Youngs' "Don't Let It Bring You Down" was
inspired. Another line from "Take Heart" echoed true to the
audience..."Come on and give hope a little elbow room."
