Polymath

Polymath is a UK rock group active since 2007 and based in Brighton. The name is used for more than one project: it identifies a Brighton-based math rock trio, an electronic and disco house DJ project associated with Martin Gowans from Inverness in Scotland, and an open-source musical experiment that invites public contribution. The group is also described as a digital arts company founded by Amy Nicholson and Tom Walsh.

Math rock project

In one form, Polymath is a Brighton-based trio playing math rock with a strong post-rock edge. Their music is described as off-kilter, and their debut EP appears in March 2008 with members Tom, Amy, Mike and Ali. After releasing several self-issued singles, they join the LV family in late 2014 for the EP Reptiles.

Electronic and house project

Another Polymath project is a DJ and producer act from Inverness, UK, linked to Martin Gowans. This version of Polymath draws on electro, disco, French house and related electronic styles, and it receives radio support from Jaymo & Andy George, Kissy Sell Out and BBC Introducing Scotland’s Vic Galloway.

Open-source musical experiment

Polymath also operates as one of the world’s first open-source musical experiments. In that format, contributors can add artwork, animation, video, poetry, lyrics, dance, ideas and audio, while the project’s sound combines spoken and written material with layered instrumentation including cellos, synths, piano, bass, guitars, drums and vocals.