Tortoise Reveals Special Fall 2025 Tour with Chicago Philharmonic Highlight

CHICAGO — Genre-defying instrumental band Tortoise is hitting the road this fall with a newly announced string of concert dates across the U.S. and a special overseas finale in London. The tour, running from October to November 2025, includes a rare hometown performance with the Chicago Philharmonic, promising a one-of-a-kind musical experience for fans.
A Long-Awaited Return with New Sounds
This announcement follows the March release of “Oganesson,” Tortoise’s first new single in nine years, and the subsequent Oganesson Remixes EP, which features creative reworks by standout artists like Saul Williams, Makaya McCraven, and Patrick Carney of The Black Keys. These tracks preview the band’s much-anticipated new album, coming this fall via International Anthem and Nonesuch Records.
Fall 2025 Tour Dates
The Fall 2025 tour kicks off with an artistic evening at The Broad in Los Angeles on October 18, followed by performances in Austin and Marfa, Texas. The centerpiece is undoubtedly the November 11 show in downtown Chicago, where Tortoise will perform with the Chicago Philharmonic at the landmark Auditorium Theatre.
Additional dates include:
- Nov 12 – Singleton Center for the Arts, Lexington, KY
- Nov 14–15 – Two-night run at Bowery Ballroom, New York City
- Nov [TBA] – Barbican Centre, London (tour finale)
Tickets for most dates go on sale Friday, July 18 at 10 AM local time.
Chicago Philharmonic Collaboration: A Can’t-Miss Night
The Chicago concert on November 11 stands out as a true celebration of sound. Tortoise will perform both new compositions and fan favorites from their influential discography, all with live orchestral backing by the Chicago Philharmonic. This marks a first-of-its-kind collaboration for the band and adds a grand dimension to their already dynamic performances.
Held at The Auditorium Theatre, known for its historic acoustics and architectural elegance, the night is expected to be both immersive and deeply moving — a blend of experimental rock and classical sophistication.
A Legacy That Transcends Genres
Formed in Chicago, Tortoise is widely hailed as one of the most inventive and influential music collectives of the past four decades. While often labeled “post-rock,” the band’s sound floats across genres — from ambient to jazz, electronic to minimalism — and remains difficult to define but always easy to enjoy.
Their discography includes acclaimed albums like:
- Millions Now Living Will Never Die (1996)
- TNT (1998)
- Standards (2001)
As Pitchfork noted, Tortoise’s live shows are “wide open to all sorts of sonic possibilities,” and Rolling Stone calls them “a live marvel.”
Tickets & More Info
You can explore full tour details, ticket links, and listen to new releases via:
Are You Ready for Tortoise Live?
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their evolving sound, Tortoise’s 2025 tour is set to be one of the most imaginative concert runs of the year — especially with their orchestral debut in Chicago. Grab your tickets early and don’t miss the chance to witness a band that continues to push musical boundaries.