Tortoise

Trts AUS 2026.

Tortoise is widely considered one of the most influential music groups of the last 40 years, with a wide-reaching impact on the contemporary music scene. Pitchfork says: “Imagine a graphic showing all the bands the five members of Tortoise were in before they came together and then all the bands they went on to play with after. At the top of the funnel you have groups ranging from dreamy psych-rock to earthy post-punk crunch, including Eleventh Dream Day, Bastro, Slint, and the Poster Children; on the 'post-Tortoise' end are groups focusing on electro-jazz and twangy instrumental rock like Isotope 217, Chicago Underground, and Brokeback. In this graphic, Tortoise is the choke point, the one project that has elements of all these sounds but is never defined by nor committed to any of them. 

The band, which originally formed in Chicago in 1990, comprises Dan Bitney, John Herndon, Douglas McCombs, John McEntire, and Jeff Parker.

Initially hailed as pace-setters of an emergent, cinematic instrumental evolution of alternative rock, the Chicago Tribune called Tortoise’s sound “mood music that refuses to be shoved into the background, as inviting as it is challenging.” Releasing just seven albums since 1990 — including classics like 1996’s Millions Now Living Will NeverDie, 1998’s TNT, and 2001’s Standards —Tortoise has steadily and intuitively evolved across its life, creating genreless music that is as timeless as it is ahead of the curve.

The band’s legacy goes beyond its recorded output, as well. Per the New York Times: “While Tortoise's albums have

experimented with the editing and overdubbing possibilities of the studio, the band thrives performing in real time.” Rolling Stone deems Tortoise “a live marvel,” while Pitchfork further says the band’s performances reveal that “at heart, they’re a supremely fun band, wide open to all sorts of sonic possibilities.”

With their first visit to Australian shores in 10 years, Tortoise is set to wow audiences around the country with these select shows.

- Contact via venue website or social media
- Local Adelaide number recommended for inquiries

- Located at venue entrance
- Photo ID required for ticket pickup
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before event start time
- Ticket confirmation may be needed

- Street parking available on North Terrace
- Limited on-site parking
- Nearby public parking lots recommended
- Consider public transport options

- Ground floor accessibility
- Some wheelchair spaces available
- Contact venue in advance for specific requirements
- Companion seating options

- Age restrictions may apply depending on event
- No outside food or drinks
- No re-entry policy
- Arrive early for security checks

- Most events 18+ or 21+
- Some all-ages events possible
- Minors must be accompanied by guardian
- Check specific event guidelines