Tortoise’s first album in nearly seven years began with a 2010 commission from Chicago for a piece to represent the city’s jazz and improv music communities.

After performing these pieces, Tortoise found themselves drawn to the sound when considering a new album at band member John McEntire’s Soma Studios.

The Catastrophist goes far beyond the the band's usual work, first laid down by Millions Now Living Will Never Die (1996).

There's certainly a new spirit in the shape of a cover of David Essex's Rock On (with help from Todd Rittmann of US Maple) and a bittersweet, small-hours ballad, Yonder Blue, aided by Yo La Tengo's Georgia Hubley.

But there's also a greater sense of rhythmic derring-do. Tracks such as Gesceap and Shake Hands With Danger are full of beautiful, shimmering detail and power.