Comments for Tortoise, Tortoise

This album is one of the best albums I've ever heard. This is coming from the mouth of someone who, previously, was in love with classic rock especially Led Zeppelin. When an album can supersede something that is that classic I think it is well worth the listening. It's also interesting to note (since I know my Classic Rock) that Tortoise was obviously influenced by at least one great name from the past. A small sample from The Who's "The Who Sell Out" can be found on this Tortoise LP (the part where the days of the week are counted down).

Tortoise- ahhhh. It''s music for feeling as much as listening- the windows vibrate but it still stays interesting. Why, the only thing that surpasses it is my Can albums. But hey, we all can''t be like Czukay.

This is one of the best albums ever! Tortoise is Chicagos`s sumpreme super group comprised of John McEntire, John Herndon, Dan Bitney, Douglas McCombs, and Bundy K. Brown (all these guys have been playing in well known bands for many years) The album begins with a nice quiet song that rattles one only to be broken up with momoents of heavy sound effects. The next track "Night Air" is a slow drum rhythm with a voice mumbling really ,really low. Their is a nice organ sound that adds throughout the whole thing. The next track is the true standout "Ry Cooder" (a homeage?). This song contains great vibraphone sounds and over a slow beat. Then suddenly it explodes! The vibes are going crazy, the rhythm has picked up and then it goes back to its earlier state. Then it changes up again. This song is excellent. The following track beigns with a heavy drum solo then goes into moments a quiet moody sounscape. "Tin Cans & Twine" is a bass driven piece, that is broken up with strange sounds. "Spiderwebbed" begins with great effects and bass. The following track is very quiet. "On Noble" is a nice little groove number. "Flyrod" is another quiet sound effect piece. The final track begins with a computer voice stating all the days of the week and then pours over into a very heavy and delightful groove that contains fabulous vibes. This album is for anyone who likes music. It is more diverse, experimental and groovy than anything else you`ve ever heard. This time believe the hype-these guys our well worht praising. Note: original pressing comes in a cardboard sleeve that was printed at Fireproof Press, giving it that nice lp like flavor! (this sleeve is responsible for kicking off the packaging revolution in indie rock. it has been emulated by bands like Shellac, Stereolab, June Of `44 and countless others)