16 Horsepower

American band from Denver led by David Eugene Edwards, noted for dark, religiously inflected folk that blends banjo, accordion, violin, double bass and drums into a gothic Americana sound.

Core figures mentioned in reviews include David Eugene Edwards (vocals, banjo, piano, guitar), Jean-Yves Tola (drums), Keven Soll (bass) and (on some releases) Pascal Humbert and Steve Taylor. Reviews note guest contribution of Gordon Gano (Violent Femmes) on Sackcloth 'n' Ashes. Major studio albums reviewed on DeBaser include Sackcloth 'n' Ashes (1995), Low Estate (1997), Secret South (2000) and Folklore (2002).

Reviews describe 16 Horsepower as a Denver-rooted ensemble led by David Eugene Edwards that blends folk, country and gothic elements into a religiously charged, funeral-tinged sound. Critics highlight sparse acoustic instrumentation (banjo, accordion, violin, double bass, drums) and lyrical themes of sin, salvation and death. Key albums frequently recommended are Sackcloth 'n' Ashes, Low Estate, Secret South and Folklore.

For:Fans of dark Americana, gothic folk, alt-country and religiously inflected songwriting; listeners of David Eugene Edwards.