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Arp's avatar

I am curious about "Math Rock", can you explain?

Asked by Arp (3521points) February 11th, 2010

From wikipedia:

“Math rock is a rhythmically complex, guitar-based style of experimental rock music that emerged in the late 1980s. It is characterized by complex, atypical rhythmic structures (including irregular stopping and starting), angular melodies, and dissonant chords.”

Sounds awesome, though I am apparently a little late for the party… Anywho, I have been a fan of music that gives other people exteme headaches (AKA IDM music) and have been a part of the experimental music “movement” for quite a while now, and I have never heard of this. I play guitar, and have friends that have wanted to start an indie rock band, so my question is, is this kind of music still popular, and how can we get started with it? Thanks!

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10 Answers

DeanV's avatar

Check out Polvo, arguably the biggest band in math rock, or if that doesn’t suit you go for some Minus the Bear. It’s more mainstream, and a personal favorite of mine right now.

DeanV (14216points)“Great Answer” (2points) Flag as…
aprilsimnel's avatar

Ex-Models, Erase Errata and The Mars Volta are math rock-y to me.

aprilsimnel (30754points)“Great Answer” (0points) Flag as…
jeffgoldblumsprivatefacilities's avatar

I strongly second Minus the Bear.

jeffgoldblumsprivatefacilities (20019points)“Great Answer” (1points) Flag as…
judochop's avatar

Check out Don Caballero or Battles. Both are perfect examples of what Math Rock is, both also happen to be instrumental.

judochop (16124points)“Great Answer” (1points) Flag as…
Barcybarce's avatar

Yes you definetly need to listen to Battles, listen to Atlas

Barcybarce (339points)“Great Answer” (1points) Flag as…
benjaminlevi's avatar

Giraffes? Giraffes! is good

benjaminlevi (2992points)“Great Answer” (0points) Flag as…
rovdog's avatar

Second Judo- Don Cabellero seem to be often cited innovators- I think they actually deny the math rock title. Second Judo and Uberbat- Battles does something really cool I think bringing it beyond the conceptual- I’m not that into this genre but this is the one math rock band I’ve listened to that has really captivated me. But it sounds like they might be too melodic for you given your description- I think they hit a nice middle ground in experimental for me. Love to hear your thoughts- and I will also check out some of these other suggestions.

rovdog (842points)“Great Answer” (1points) Flag as…
evandad's avatar

I have never heard the term “math rock” but if you want to hear an experimental guitarist I suggest Robert Fripp.

evandad (2500points)“Great Answer” (0points) Flag as…

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