While the Denver outfit's latest release, Hoarse, may not alter that somber perception, this compilation of some of the band's best material may, more importantly, finally get the homeland to take heed. Riveting, redemptive versions of "Black Soul Choir" and "Black Lung" charge fearlessly -- in fact, the only fear these bold rednecks seem to possess is that of the Lord and, perhaps, of cracking that elusive smile. With a mixture of stunning live material recorded at energetic 1998 shows in Denver and Paris and the inclusion of some cover versions of the band's rather surprising influences, 16 Horsepower manages to have some fun in this setting -- that is, if Joy Division's "Day of the Lords" is your idea of a good time.