As if David Eugene Edwards isn't already prolific enough, his record label also releases this compilation of old recordings (1993-1994) of his band Sixteen Horsepower. The album contains premature, but actually already completely crystallized versions of songs - including debut single Shametown - which would emerge not long thereafter on Sixteen Horsepower (the debut EP), Sackcloth 'N Ashes and Low Estate.

Supplemented by two very brief snatches of interviews and two almost identical versions of American Wheese (sic), which would later get a scorching rendition on the live album Hoarse. Its surplus value should then be the six excellent live tracks, recorded at the Mercury Café in Denver (1994). Remarkably enough we don't hear the audience.

Sixteen Horsepower was already an exceptional band then, but would get much better later on. Olden is for fans and collectors.