Full Breakdown
Tortoise Announces New Album 'Touch' and Upcoming Tour
9/10/2025, 2:08:24 PM
Overview of 'Touch'
American experimental band Tortoise has announced their new album, *Touch*, marking their first release since 2016. The album will be available in physical formats on October 24, 2025, and will stream on platforms starting November 11, 2025. *Touch* is being released through International Anthem and Nonesuch Records. The lead single, "Layered Presence," accompanied by a music video directed by Mikel Patrick Avery, is currently available across digital streaming platforms.
Creative Process and Musical Style
The recording of *Touch* took place across three cities—Los Angeles, Portland, and Chicago—reflecting the band's current geographical distribution. Tortoise members Dan Bitney, John Herndon, Douglas McCombs, John McEntire, and Jeff Parker utilized a collectivist songwriting approach, emphasizing collaboration over individual ego. The album showcases a diverse range of styles, including elements of Krautrock, techno, and jazz, while maintaining the band's signature sound characterized by intricate arrangements and abstract musicality.
Tracklist and Collaborations
*Touch* features ten tracks, including the previously released single "Oganesson." The album's tracklist is as follows:
1. Vexations
2. Layered Presence
3. Works and Days
4. Elka
5. Promenade à deux
Additionally, the recording of "Promenade à deux" included contributions from violist Marta Sofia Honer and cellist Skip VonKuske.
Upcoming Tour Dates
Tortoise has scheduled a series of performances to promote *Touch*, including notable shows such as:
- October 18, 2025: The Broad, Los Angeles, CA
- November 11, 2025: The Auditorium with the Chicago Philharmonic, Chicago, IL
- November 14-16, 2025: Bowery Ballroom, New York, NY (sold out)
- November 22, 2025: Barbican, London, UK (first show sold out, matinee added)
- January 20-30, 2026: Various locations in Finland, Sweden, Germany, France, Belgium, and Italy.
The band will continue their European tour into April 2026, with additional dates to be announced.
Criticism & Opposition
While Tortoise's return has been met with enthusiasm from fans, some critics have expressed skepticism regarding the band's ability to recapture the innovative spirit of their earlier works. The shift in their creative process, due to geographical separation, has raised questions about the cohesiveness of the new material.
Official Statements & Responses
In a press release, Tortoise described *Touch* as a culmination of their long-gestating reunion, emphasizing their commitment to a collaborative and egalitarian creative process. The band noted that the stylistic diversity present in the album reflects their current operating circumstances and personal evolution.
Verbatim Quotes
Tortoise's *Touch* promises to be a significant addition to their discography, blending their established sound with new influences and perspectives.
