2 Tortoise Millions Now Living Will Never Die THRILL JOCKEY, 1996

You say: “They’re true inheritors of prog, not that long, drawn-out style of soft metal that adopted the term.” Richard Littler, via Twitter

Tortoise’s self-titled debut, in 1994, showcased a band tentatively stepping out of the posthardcore scene, into quieter and more musically diverse worlds. But it was a 1995 remix set, Rhythms, Resolutions & Clusters (included in A Lazarus Taxon), that really showed the possibilities of this evolving new music. Millions Now Living compounds those adventures, with a dynamic elastic sound hinging on multiple percussionists and bassists. Djed, over 21 constantly shifting minutes and time signatures, is a pulsating sequel to Gamera, and an increasing taste for vibraphones signpost the next step, into jazzier terrain…