You're right. I've been trying to get into Beacons of Ancestorship, but i think it's average at best. I like the song "Prepare Your Coffin" though. I think it's a free download if you wanted a taste of that album. I don't have the other release.
It's epic isn't it? I've had TNT for quite some time but never really got it. Then i got Millions Now Living and can't stop listening to all the Tortoise albums i own!! I've scrobbled 200 odd plays in the last week alone..