The hottest genre of television show right now is called a serial show. Instead of the traditionally self-contained episodes where the full life cycle of a drama is created and resolved in the course of less than an hour, serial television thrives on unresolved questions and issues at the end of each episode. With the luxury of what quickly becomes an extended movie, the writers are able to develop complicated storylines to create a storyline that simulates the rhythm of life. Each episode, rather than being a stand-alone story, serves as a smaller glimpse of a bigger picture.

Titled Mosaic, it should be expected that the fourth and most recent effort from Wovenhand (a solo endeavor from 16 Horsepower's front man, David Eugene Edwards) would consist of fragmented images and themes that form a larger statement. Discovering, much less understanding, that statement, however, may not be the easiest task. Indeed, the pieces work together cryptically, leaving behind a puzzling result. "Winter Shaker," for example, bemoans the unfair treatment of Native Americans, while at the same time, recognizing that even these darker periods of time can bring glory to God. "Whistling Girl" seems to speak of God's providence, referencing the Biblical story of Elijah being fed by ravens, while "Full Armour" discusses the importance of being ready in the context of spiritual warfare. Other tracks make little sense on the surface as the meanings appear shrouded deeply in the form of metaphor.

Equally complex is the soundtrack backing these mysterious lyrics. It's a difficult style to define as it's far from conventionally confined to any one particular genre. The overall feel of the album, musically lives up to the title as well featuring pieces of folk, pieces of rock, pieces of orchestral arrangements, which merge together to form a haunting, experimental sound that proves to be as compelling as the lyrics. Vocally, Edwards includes moans, groans, and chants in the mix as well as a dreary delivery of his lyrics, which adds to the Native American ceremonial feel.

Overall, Mosaic brings listeners a cloudy but interesting picture of what's going on in the mind of David Eugene Edwards. As Wovenhand, Edwards manages to take scriptures and other references and tie them all together in an artful and creative way. Though certainly confusing at times, Mosaic is definitely an intriguing album to listen to and take in several times. One to check out for the adventurous listener.

Score: 86%