Ivory Tower
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
The Minneapolis artist Samuel Wilbur brings along some serious female talent from all over the world for these 13 pop and rock tunes.
“Everything Is Falling Apart” opens with Clare Dove’s well timed vocals in the thumping and swirling pop song that invites singing along, and “Social Security Number” follows with Dani Michaele’s distinct voice amid a bit of a jangle via the infectious delivery.
The title track lands closer to the middle and invites Meghan Kreidler’s soulful pipes that suit the melodic yet firm delivery, while “Hornet’s Nest” welcomes Laura Kiernan’s and Ben Botfield’s distinct voices alongside the bouncy bass of the busy yet meticulous album highlight.
“It Belongs To Me” and “Everything Repeats” exit the listen. The former enlists sturdy guitar riffs and layers of dynamic rock, and the latter benefits from James Graham’s mesmerizing keys, Nisa Addina’s violin and a dreaminess in the cautious finish.
An album full of charming duets and diverse instrumentation, Wilbur’s harmonies, hooks and multi-instrumental ways are again much appreciated and further solidify him as a Minnesota artist worthy of attention.
Travels well with: Samuel Wilbur- The Age; Bryan Schumann & The Sunshapes- Heart & Horizon