Top 20 Review 2025 – Tortoise

On their latest release, the influential instrumental group Tortoise delivers a masterclass in atmospheric composition. Marking their first full-length record in nearly a decade, the album showcases the ensemble’s signature fusion of meticulous post-rock structures with the expansive, feeling-based language of jazz and ambient music.

The work is defined by a profound sense of space and deliberate pacing. Layers of vibraphone, analog synthesizers, and interlocking rhythms build into rich, immersive environments. Rather than seeking dramatic climaxes, the music unfolds with a patient, exploratory logic, inviting deep listening. Tracks fluidly navigate between warm melodic passages and more abstract, textural sections, all rendered with the group’s renowned technical precision.

This album does not simply revisit past achievements but refines the band’s sonic philosophy. It is a collection that feels both thoughtfully composed and spontaneously alive, reinforcing Tortoise’s distinct position as architects of sophisticated, emotionally resonant soundscapes. The result is a compelling and cohesive listen that rewards attention, demonstrating the enduring vitality of their innovative approach.