When did Math Rock start?

Math Rock originated 1988--present. USA, late 1980s.

Is Math Rock still popular?

Math Rock continues to be listened to and has influenced countless artists since its origins. Key contemporary artists in the genre include Toe, Totorro, TTNG, Covet.

What is the difference between Math Rock and post-rock?

Math Rock and post-rock are related genres that share some characteristics but differ in origin, instrumentation, and production approach. See the related genres section on this page for more context.

Genre Definition

What is Math Rock music?

Math Rock is a music genre that originated 1988--present. USA, late 1980s.

Browse Math Rock albums on Goat Music Best Math Rock albums ranked

Origin of Math Rock

USA, late 1980s. Grew from post-hardcore and progressive rock. Slint's Spiderland (1991) and Shellac are canonical references. The term refers to the use of unusual, complex, and frequently changing time signatures rather than the 4/4 grid of most rock.

Era: 1988--present

Defining sound of Math Rock

Interlocking guitar parts in unusual time signatures (7/8, 11/8, polyrhythm). Minimal or no vocals. Precise, technical playing. Production is often dry and unprocessed to foreground rhythmic complexity. BPM changes frequently within a piece. Emotional range from tender to explosive.

Pioneers of Math Rock

Slint
Shellac
Don Caballero
Gastr del Sol
Polvo

Key Math Rock artists

Post-Rock post-hardcore Progressive Rock Noise Rock Emo

Frequently asked questions about Math Rock

When did Math Rock start?: Math Rock originated 1988--present. USA, late 1980s.
Who invented Math Rock?: Math Rock was pioneered by Slint, Shellac, Don Caballero, Gastr del Sol, Polvo. USA, late 1980s. Grew from post-hardcore and progressive rock. Slint's Spiderland (1991) and Shellac are canonical references. The term refers to the use of unusual, complex, and frequently changing time signatures rather than the 4/4 grid of most rock.
Is Math Rock still popular?: Math Rock continues to be listened to and has influenced countless artists since its origins. Key contemporary artists in the genre include Toe, Totorro, TTNG, Covet.
What does Math Rock sound like?: Interlocking guitar parts in unusual time signatures (7/8, 11/8, polyrhythm). Minimal or no vocals. Precise, technical playing. Production is often dry and unprocessed to foreground rhythmic complexity. BPM changes frequently within a piece. Emotional range from tender to explosive.
What is the difference between Math Rock and post-rock?: Math Rock and post-rock are related genres that share some characteristics but differ in origin, instrumentation, and production approach. See the post-rock definition page for a full comparison.

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