What makes The Tower by Motorpsycho notable?

Upon its release, 'The Tower' received widespread critical acclaim, appearing on several year-end lists and solidifying Motorpsycho's influence in the progressive rock revival. The album showcases a blend of genres that resonates deeply within the underground scene, influencing numerous contemporary bands seeking to merge rock with avant-garde elements. By the time 'The Tower' was released in 2017, Motorpsycho had established themselves as stalwarts of the Norwegian rock scene, with a discography spanning over 25 years. This album marked their fourteenth studio release and continued their evolution into a more complex and experimental sound following their acclaimed album 'Here Be Monsters' from 2016.

Who is The Tower for?

The Tower works well if you're into expansive soundscapes for exploration, patient unfolding of intricate melodies and immersive journey through varied tempos.

How many songs are on The Tower?

The Tower has 10 tracks, running approximately 84 minutes.

The Tower

Motorpsycho · 2017

84 min · 10 tracks · progressive rock

A sprawling journey through progressive rock, weaving intricate melodies with expansive instrumental explorations and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Tower — As the title track, it encapsulates the thematic complexity of the album, presenting an ambitious structure that mirrors the towering concept behind it.
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Intrepid Explorer — This track stands out for its dynamic shifts and rich instrumentation, showcasing Motorpsycho's ability to blend adventurous themes with musical experimentation.
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A Pacific Sonata — Clocking in at over 15 minutes, this piece exemplifies the band's improvisational prowess and allows for deep exploration of melodic and rhythmic ideas.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

68 /100

Alpine

Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate compositions and varied instrumentation create a compelling progressive rock experience.

What we noticed

The album features extended tracks, with several exceeding six minutes, allowing for gradual development of themes and motifs.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

expansive soundscapes for exploration
patient unfolding of intricate melodies
immersive journey through varied tempos
deep focus for long listening
cathartic moments of sonic release

Maybe skip if you

prefer quick, standalone tracks
seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — The album received widespread acclaim and showcases the band's artistic ambition.
Career context: By the time 'The Tower' was released in 2017, Motorpsycho had established themselves as stalwarts of the Norwegian rock scene, with a discography spanning over 25 years. This album marked their fourteenth studio release and continued their evolution into a more complex and experimental sound following their acclaimed album 'Here Be Monsters' from 2016.
Stylistic neighbors: The Mars Volta· Porcupine Tree· Opeth