In the Fishtank 5 cover

In the Fishtank 5

Tortoise · 1999

22 min · 6 tracks · post-rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of experimental soundscapes and rhythmic textures that challenge conventional song structures.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Lawn of the Limp — Opening with an intricate interplay of guitars and percussion, this track sets the tone for the album's exploratory spirit while maintaining a playful yet introspective ambiance.
  • →
    Pooh Song (Christopher Robin’s Nightbear) — This track weaves a delicate balance between whimsy and melancholy, highlighted by its dreamy instrumentation that evokes a sense of nostalgia and curiosity.
  • →
    Pleasure as Usual — With its dynamic shifts and layered sounds, this track exemplifies Tortoise's ability to craft engaging compositions that defy standard musical expectations.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
70 /100
Alpine
Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate soundscapes and improvisational approach mark it as a significant work in post-rock.

What we noticed

  • The tracks feature extended instrumental sections that explore varying dynamics and textures, often shifting from quiet, ambient passages to more intense rhythmic segments.
  • Each piece is structured around repetitive motifs that evolve gradually, creating a sense of movement without traditional song forms.
  • The use of unconventional instruments and sound manipulation techniques contributes to a layered sonic landscape that invites deep listening.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • kaleidoscopic sound exploration
  • short bursts of rhythmic textures
  • playful experimentation with structure
  • intriguing auditory surprises throughout

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward song formats
  • seek predictable listening experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'In the Fishtank 5' was released in 1999, Tortoise was already recognized as a pivotal force in the post-rock movement, following their critically acclaimed album 'Millions Now Living Will Never Die' from 1996. This collaboration with The Sea and Cake's Sam Prekop marked a moment of artistic exploration, showcasing their willingness to experiment outside of traditional formats.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The Lawn of the Limp 4:06
  • 2 Pooh Song (Christopher Robin’s Nightbear) 4:57
  • 3 Central Heating 2:18
  • 4 Pleasure as Usual 5:07
  • 5 Did You Comb? 2:09
  • 6 Huge Hidden Spaces 4:12

What to play next

Standards
Listen next

Standards

2001
TNT
Go back to

TNT

1998
Full Tortoise discography Artists like Tortoise
art rock post-rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata