[3][4] It is characterized by complex, atypical rhythmic structures (including irregular stopping and starting), counterpoint, odd time signatures, and extended chords.
[5][6] The albums Red and Discipline by King Crimson,[7][8] as well as Spiderland by Slint,[9] are generally considered seminal influences on the development of math rock.
[26][27] Math rock has a significant presence in Japan; the most prominent Japanese groups include Toe, Tricot, The Cabs, and Lite.
[28] Other Japanese groups which incorporate math rock in their music include Ling Tosite Sigure,[29] Zazen Boys[28] and Mouse on the Keys[30] while the Japanoise scene features bands such as Ruins, Zeni Geva, and Boredoms.
[31] Polvo of Chapel Hill, North Carolina is often considered one of the household names in math rock, although the band members themselves have disavowed the categorization.
"[34] Although the Seattle grunge scene was not widely associated with math rock, some consider Soundgarden to be one of few exceptions, due to the odd time signatures found in many of their songs.[35][relevant?]