The term post-rock was meant for bands like Tortoise. Specializing in creating abstract instrumental rock, the Chicago-based group debuted with their self-titled album in 1994 before releasing Millions Now Living Will Never Die in 1996. That project became a cornerstone of their catalogue and impressed with a potent mix of groovy jams and minimalist soundscapes that paid tribute to Krautrock and jazz fusion. Staying innovative into the aughts, 2009's ambitious Beacons of Ancestorship showed that Tortoise are always capable of breaking new ground in the post-rock scene.