Gordian Knot was an American rock band directed by bass guitarist Sean Malone.

At times its shifting lineup included Steve Hackett of Genesis, Bill Bruford of Yes and King Crimson, Ron Jarzombek from Watchtower and Spastic Ink, as well as Jim Matheos of Fates Warning, several of Malone's former bandmates from Cynic, and John Myung from Dream Theater.

[1] The music of Gordian Knot is a stylistic mixture of progressive rock and metal, instrumental music reminiscent of Robert Fripp's Guitar Craft and his solo work (e.g. compare Gordian Knot's song "Grace" with Robert Fripp's "Evening Star").

Notable is their use of counterpoint, often presenting several complex intertwining layers of melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic structures.

The music of Gordian Knot also relies heavily on diatonic guitar melodies although sometimes encompassing later resolved dissonances to add a jazz fusion-like flavor.