Anyone who has seen 16 Horsepower live knows how intense and riveting their performance can be. In fact, it was not until I saw them live the first time that I became a dedicated fan. Now I can't get enough of this truly unique quartet.
Until now, I had not heard much live material from 16hp to do them justice. Then came "Hoarse." This is, without a doubt, one of the best live recordings I have ever heard. At times it is easy to forget you are listening to a live recording--the quality is THAT high (cf. "Horse Head," "Bad Moon Risin'" and others).
Not only does the recording capture the stirring chemistry between the band and one enthusiastic audience, but it also showcases one quality of the bad that sets them apart from so many others--their ability to grow and change without losing their roots.
Along side favorites like "American Wheeze," "For Heaven's Sake" and "Brimstone Rock" (performances that truly capture the intensity David Eugene Edwards and co. deliver during show after show), these boys have retooled other classics and have made them new. After a rollicking bluegrass opening, they launch into a "countrified" version of "Black Lung"--simply brilliant!
But the absolute show-stopper here is "Hoarse Head." What was once an edgy rocker has become a mournful dirge, complete with soulful cello and wailing vocals. I experienced the song as if for the first time. The lyric feel and mental landscape which it creates came into stark focus. Words and phrases jumped out at me I had never "heard" before in its previous incarnation. The song has become one of my favorites, which I could not say before.
The ability for a band to grow and allow their songs to evolve this way is remarkable. Not only are their hands gifted with musical verve and grace, but their minds are still active and engaged. Rest assured, 16hp is alive and growing.
"Hoarse" also offers three covers, two of which are real gems. "Bad Moon Risin'" is a staple for their live sets. 16hp pay CCR's classic homage, but do so under a blue moon. You'll never hear the song the same again. Another pleasant surprise is their cover of Joy Division's "Day of the Lords"--which also offers us a glimpse behind the divergent musical forces that have shaped this band. The song suits the darkness of 16hp's usual haunts, as does the intensity of their delivery. It would be interesting to see more of this kind of visitation.
On the other hand, I can't say that I like "Fire Spirit"--a Gun Club cover. I just don't think it fits 16hp either in style or content. It seems out of place here. Their own brand of rock suits me just fine--this particular song goes nowhere fast. This small exception aside, "Hoarse" is brilliantly conceived and executed. Here's to more and better live recordings like this in the future!
If you have never seen Sixteen Horsepower live, do yourself a huge favor next time they are in your area. Until then "Hoarse" offers you a front row seat (you might as well be on stage!) for what is by far one of the best live bands performing today. It is truly a splendid and captivating performance, now ours for all time.
Live performers without peer
Not their best
11 tracks
