Tortoise and Basic

Post rock outfit Tortoise have gained a reputation many would envy in a career that is fast approaching its 25 year anniversary. The Californian musicians are now held in cult-like adoration and despite a lack of commerciality for the six albums currently released, fans attend the shows again and again due to the impassioned manner in which the band conducts itself.

The stage is set with just a few instruments and little else before the lights dim and the quintet files out saluting the crowd who are already beginning their applause. The show is a demonstration of what makes Tortoise so easy to adore, it is honest rock and roll performed by incredibly genuine musicians who totally understand where they have come from. The fact they have their feet so firmly planted on the ground means the fans are kept at the centre of the operation all evening with constant thank yous and dedications. The audience repays this gratitude with thunderous applause for a finale of 'Salt the Skies'.