It must be a mixed-blessing for Tortoise that they are often labeled as the “godfather of Post-Rock” in the press. They certainly are one of the first bands to be known for purely instrumental, arranged rock pieces. They most certainly transcend "rock" genres, moving freely between standard rock power chords, jazz arrangements and electronic soundscapes, with a bit of dub thrown in for good measure. It would be an injustice, however, to simply throw Tortoise into what is now the "post-rock" genre, despite being the progenitors of the genre itself.

In fact, during their set at the Black Cat on Saturday night, Chicago-based Tortoise proved themselves to be musically uncategorizable, though simultaneously projecting the aura of a band that knows its way around the jam-band circuit. Whether it was the smell of nagchampa permeating the air, or the whoops and hollers of the audience during every interlude, one couldn’t help but think that a certain illegal, smokable, substance coupled with a more grassy dance floor wouldn’t be just a little more fitting as their musical backdrop. As it were, the video-projection that was the literal backdrop on Saturday night seemed a bit dated (with one portion looking as though it came straight from Tron) and simplistic. However, during the set, the projection seemed to meld more with the music and became more of an accompaniment than a visual distraction.

Since the early nineties, Tortoise has put out seven albums, one remix album and a full box set. Tortoise is one of the only bands that has always produced their own albums, relying heavily on frontman John McEntire's Soma Electronic Music Studios (which has produced the likes of Wilco and Stereolab, among others). At the Black Cat, Tortoise played across their albums including the Jazz-heavy TNT, the lush melodies of It’s All Around You and rock-tinged Standards.

The band has always been noted for their unique make-up, starting in the early 90’s with 2 bassists and 3 percussionists. This weekend, the band was comprised of main composer John McEntire on drums, keyboards, vibraphone and a host of other less recognizable instruments; Dan Bitney on bass, guitar, vibraphone, keys; John Herndon on drums through most of the first half, and later also on vibes and keys; Jeff Parks on bass and guitar; and Doug McCombs on bass and guitar. As easily as Tortoise switched from one genre to the next, the musicians themselves switched instruments, places and roles throughout the set. Though it was mainly McEntire holding the reins, he often gave various band members more slack during certain songs or passages.

The set was generally mid-tempo, but was broken up by two slower tempo songs strategically placed in the middle. These songs were also much more electronic than the others. One of which had a soaring and emotionally-wrought melody delivered via keys and vibraphone. It was during this song that we could see most clearly the line that connects Tortoise, with say, Sigur Ros. After this song, Tortoise really began to loosen up and delivered some stellar extended improvisations and flourishes. It was also during the second half that their more "jam band" side came through. During one song, drummer Herndon and McEntire hopped on and off the two vibraphones flanking each side of the stage to deliver an intricate rhythmic base to this extended piece.

Tortoise might not be everyone's cup of tea — their shifting rhythms and styles create something that is often hard to pindown and at times even harder to dance to. You might find yourself nodding to the rhythm at one point, and the next be completely lost as they go in an entirely unfamiliar direction. However, it is the dichotomies Tortoise creates out of these ups and downs, between dark, intricate passages and uplifting power chords, that make their music unique. In all, it's hard to miss the fact that these are excellent musicians on stage who are passionate about what they do. We will likely continue to see Tortoise, either at the next festival or indie venue, for many years to come — however, if you want the full Tortoise effect we suggest opting for the festival.

Photo from the Tortoise's webpage.