Poly-Math - 2026 - Something Deeply Hidden

(39:41; The Laser's Edge)

Poly-Math are a British instrumental act formed in 2013 by guitarist Tim Walters who was originally drummer of post-rock band Monsters Build Mean Robots. He wanted to focus on guitar and instrumental music and was soon joined by bassist Joe Branton and drummer Chris Woollison. Shortly after the release of their 2018 album, ‘House Of Wisdom | We Are The Devil’ they were joined by American multi-instrumentalist Josh Geesner, who had relocated to the UK, and although they moved to a quintet for a short while with saxophonist Chris Olsen joining the ranks they are once again operating as a quartet. 

Musically this is all over the place with an incredibly diverse set of influences ranging from early classic prog, Ethio-jazz, post-rock, math rock, African tribal rhythms and so much more. There is a great deal going on at all times with hugely complex and complicated arrangements and massive note density, which means the listener needs to pay close attention to what is taking place or running the very real risk of missing out. Everyone involved is a master musician, yet there is little in the way of egos or hogging the limelight as all have a hugely important part to play in the overall sound as the percussion can be working in one direction which is totally at odds with the guitar while the bass is off on its own melody and the keyboards are taking another route, yet when they combine, it all makes sense. They will converge at a point; take a split second to remind each other they are all in the same band and then they are off again! While math rock is the main style, they bring in a great deal more, and Woollison is a true percussionist, not just a drummer wanting to expand his resume, which adds greatly to the overall impact.

Truly progressive, this is a fascinating album from beginning to end. 

Kev Rowland, August 2026

Links:
https://www.poly-math.net/
https://www.lasercd.com/