Artist: 16 Horsepower Album: Secret South

Year: 2000
Duration: 42:13

Unmasking the Secrets of 16 Horsepower’s Secret South Album

16 Horsepower might not be a household name, but they were at the forefront of a music genre that has been experiencing a resurgence of late. The Denver-based band, formed in 1992, navigated a sound that blended old-time religion with contemporary themes, which they dubbed gospel music for the damned. Their third studio album, Secret South, was released in 2000 and was a tour-de-force that demonstrated the band's talent, intelligence, and unique perspective.
The music genre of Secret South can be categorized as Americana. It is an amalgamation of gospel, folk, country, rock, and blues influences with storytelling lyrics that cover themes of faith, sin, redemption, and the human condition. The album's instrumentation is diverse, with the use of instruments such as the banjo, fiddle, harmonica, and mandolin, giving it a rustic, folky vibe. The band's lead singer, David Eugene Edwards, has a distinctive vocal style that is rough, ragged, and raw, with a delivery that conveys emotion, conviction, and passion.
The best songs of Secret South are Clogger, Blessed Persistence, and Nobody 'Cept You. Clogger is a rollicking tune with a catchy hook that is a nod to Appalachian folk music. Blessed Persistence is a powerful song that explores the concept of grace with Edwards delivering a soulful performance backed by the gospel choir. Nobody 'Cept You is a cover that strips down Bob Dylan's song and imbues it with a haunting quality that pays tribute to the original while making it a 16 Horsepower classic.
The most innovative parts of the album are its use of biblical imagery and Edwards' ability to combine his faith with his art. Edwards is a devout Christian, and his faith permeates through all of his songs, but rather than resorting to preachiness, he uses it as a tool to explore human experiences with honesty and depth. His songs are therefore not only religious but also universal in their appeal, which is a rare feat in contemporary Christian music.
A of the album would argue that while it is a great album, it lacks cohesion at times. There are times when the songs feel disjointed and don't flow together, which can be jarring for the listener. Additionally, some may argue that the album's production is rough and unpolished, which works for the aesthetic, but may be off-putting for some.
16 Horsepower's Secret South album is a must-listen for anyone interested in Americana music. It is a rich tapestry of sound, imagery, and storytelling that showcases the band's talent and creativity. The album also demonstrates the band's ability to infuse their music with both religious and secular themes, creating a unique and universal sound that appeals to listeners of all backgrounds. While the album has its flaws, it remains a timeless classic in the Americana canon and solidifies 16 Horsepower's place as one of the pioneers of the genre.