Samuel Wilbur – Ivory Tower
This artist’s a topical troubadour tackling topics of concern, some controversial, & keeping an eye focused on modern-day America. 13 tracks may not all fly with everyone, but are worth hearing, nonetheless. The effort is well-recorded & sincere. Fortunately, he doesn’t go too radical. Is everything going to appeal to each musical ear? No. But when choosing to address such issues, an artist knows it’s for a limited audience & may alienate some. But making a statement is good if it’s done by treading lightly. Far better than the pablum pop artists regurgitate in today’s top 25.
There are 13 anti-Capitalist (as described in a promo write-up) pieces that occupy this indie-concept produced by Samuel (guitar/vocals/bass/piano/organ/synth/ukulele), with Andy Thompson. The LP addresses the environment (climate change), late-stage capitalism, the rise of oligarchy, the billionaire-ruling class, fascism, invasive technology, & AI. It’s a hard sell. Not every music lover shares these views in their song choices.
One peculiar tune is “Social Security Number” with Dani Michaele. Since that was a socialist-oriented concept set in motion by President Roosevelt, it’s puzzling that it’s here. The song is good & melodic. The original songs possess music worth listening to & the musicians play proficiently.
Minneapolis-based singer Samuel Wilbur has crafted Ivory Tower (Dropped Oct. 31/Independent/53:42) with a pleasant, commercially infused, mainstream vocal approach, similar to Christian singer Steve Taylor (“Jim Morrison’s Grave”) & has guest vocals spread throughout his LP.
Topics touched upon are heavy & it’s difficult to make a case in a simple 4-minute song for a many-sided striking issue. Songs lack an entire scope. It’s encapsulated. Artists have done this for decades – Woody Guthrie (‘40s), & Phil Ochs (‘60s). Not a new concept & both of these artists had their detractors — it’s to be expected. What’s admirable is that Mr. Wilbur allows his melodies to get “angry” rather than letting the voices get too antagonistic. “Miss the Feeling” & “Once Again the World Let You Down” have a good groove, they’re well-played, with good production values. “Once Again” has a Meghan Kreidler that is superb — delivered skillfully.
With “Hornet’s Nest,” the female backup is akin to The Shangri-Las/Roches with muscular voices, & a sarcastic street-wise tint. Clever. “It Belongs To Me” has a strong Joan Jett/Chrissie Hynde vocalese. The female vocalists cast are all excellent.
Highlights – “Social Security Number,” “Stay Out,” “Ivory Tower,” “Miss the Feeling,” “My Corner,” “Once Again the World Let You Down,” “Hornet’s Nest,” “I’m Not,” & “It Belongs To Me.”
Musicians – Bob Beahen & Sam Hall (drums), Matt Patrick (mellotron/guitar/Hammond organ/ bass/Fender Rhodes/synth/piano/vocals), Davy Bergier (guitar), Ian Martin Allison (bass), James Graham (piano), Bryan Highhill, Vigilance Brandon, & Bence Tarboszky (trumpets), Nisa Addina (violin), Kely Pinheiro (cello), Meghan Kreidler, Dani Michaele, Clare Dove, Dorothy Takev, Ben Botfield, & Laura Kiernan (vocals).
Color image courtesy of Samuel’s website. CD @ Bandcamp & https://www.samuelwilbur.com/
