Reviewed by Paul Kerslake

As devotees of David Eugene Edwards, formerly of 16 Horsepower, will know, this album was released back in 2002. Edwards wrote, performed and produced the album with very little input from any other musicians. The name Wovenhand refers to hands clasped in prayer, and Edwards' lyrics retain his faith as a regular theme with much symbolism and allegory, some of it obvious, as in "The Good Hand", and some of it more obscure, eg, "Wooden Brother". This album is clearly the work of one soul baring his faith and thoughts, brooding and sparse. It carries a pretty dark mood throughout, his collaborations with Nick Cave clearly rubbing off on him, although at the same time it can be an uplifting experience as the graceful, sparse instrumentation focuses you on the lyrics. There is also an amazing version of the Bill Withers classic "Ain't No Sunshine", translated into an exceptionally sombre heart wrenching alt country retelling. This album definitely rewards by repeated listens, albeit ones in a darkened room with no distractions.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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