16 Horsepower, especially in their early days, saw themselves first and foremost as a rock band. As such they were often compared with The Gun Club. David Eugene Edwards, however, had an interest in all things from past times, including musical instruments. One instrument that was paramount during the nascent days of 16 Horsepower was the Chemnitzer concertina. It was erroneously credited as a bandoneon (a closely-related instrument) on "Sackcloth 'n' Ashes". The antique instrument used on the early tours and recordings was falling apart and quite cumbersome to tour with; some time before the sessions for “Low Estate”, it was replaced with the more modern American-made Patek brand instrument shown in the photo.

It has always been difficult to describe the bands music in simple terms as it borrowed just as heavily from folk music, country, bluegrass and traditionals as it did from rock music. Edwards' grandfather was a Nazarene preacher and young Edwards often went along as his elder preached the Gospel to various peoples. This experience coloured his approach to songwriting as well as the instrumentation employed to develop the band's unique sound. On several tracks over the course of the band's career, Edwards evoked decisive Christian imagery, particularly that of the redemptive capacity of Jesus Christ.