Tonto+

Released shortly after their landmark debut 'Mirrored', Tonto+ serves as a bridge between Battles' rock foundations and their electronic aspirations. The EP is centered around the track 'Tonto', a fan favorite known for its interlocking guitar work and Tyondai Braxton's manipulated vocals. This release is notable for including high-profile remixes from The Field and Four Tet, which helped solidify Battles' reputation within the electronic and IDM communities. The live tracks included here highlight the band's formidable technical skill, particularly John Stanier's drumming, which remains the project's rhythmic anchor. Critics, including Pitchfork, noted the EP's ability to maintain the band's signature intensity while exploring more atmospheric, repetitive textures. It stands as a crucial artifact of the late-2000s 'indie-dance' crossover era, proving that math rock could be both intellectually demanding and physically moving.