What makes In the Time Before Llamas by Cowboy Junkies notable?

'In the Time Before Llamas' received positive critical acclaim and showcased the band’s ability to blend genres seamlessly, further solidifying their influence on the Canadian alternative rock scene. The album's notable cover of 'Sweet Jane' has been recognized for its emotive delivery, distinguishing it within a genre often dominated by more aggressive sounds during the early 2000s. By the time 'In the Time Before Llamas' was released in January 2003, Cowboy Junkies had established themselves as a distinctive voice in the alternative rock scene, following their critically acclaimed 1988 album 'The Trinity Session'. This album came three years after their previous release, 'Open,' marking a continued evolution in their sound while maintaining their signature atmospheric style.

Who is In the Time Before Llamas for?

In the Time Before Llamas works well if you're into reflective storytelling with depth, dynamic journey with emotional peaks and haunting melodies for quiet moments.

How many songs are on In the Time Before Llamas?

In the Time Before Llamas has 17 tracks, running approximately 77 minutes.

In the Time Before Llamas

Cowboy Junkies · 2003

77 min · 17 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of alternative rock and folk, steeped in melancholy and introspective storytelling.

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Top tracks — play these first

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You Will Be Loved Again — This opening track sets a contemplative tone, weaving themes of hope and heartache with its gentle instrumentation and reflective lyrics.
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Blue Moon Revisited (a song for Elvis) — A poignant tribute that intertwines personal narrative with homage, showcasing the band's lyrical depth and musicality through lush arrangements.
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'Cause Cheap Is How I Feel — This track highlights the band's signature blend of vulnerability and honesty, encapsulating feelings of disillusionment with a memorable melody.
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Murder, Tonight in the Trailer Park — The song's vivid storytelling and dark humor create an engaging narrative that reflects societal issues while maintaining an approachable sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends alternative rock and folk with introspective lyrics but lacks strong cohesion across its length.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and instrumentation.
Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a haunting atmosphere, particularly in 'Whalers / Mariner’s Song' and 'To Love Is to Bury'.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

reflective storytelling with depth
dynamic journey with emotional peaks
haunting melodies for quiet moments
for late-night introspection

Maybe skip if you

prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks
seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'In the Time Before Llamas' was released in January 2003, Cowboy Junkies had established themselves as a distinctive voice in the alternative rock scene, following their critically acclaimed 1988 album 'The Trinity Session'. This album came three years after their previous release, 'Open,' marking a continued evolution in their sound while maintaining their signature atmospheric style.
Stylistic neighbors: Mazzy Star· Red House Painters· The National