Enthralling odd meters: mysterious music with odd time signatures and complex rhythms

RedKing Crimson

King Crimson – Red (OFFICIAL)

Since the 1960s, many progressive rock bands have made their mark, but King Crimson can be considered one of the genre’s defining figures.

Known for their use of odd time signatures and formidable technique, they particularly shine on the track “Red,” which could be called an ideal entry point to prog.

Aside from the signature theme, the piece is basically in 4/4, and the opening theme can be understood as a 5+5+6+8 grouping, which may make it easier to grasp.

It’s a highly recommended progressive rock track, with a fiercely distorted bass that deserves special attention.

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Ozaki Shunji

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Another World of BeastsUematsu Nobuo

Another World of Beasts

The piece that portrays the World of the Espers in Final Fantasy VI, composed by a master of game music, radiates an overwhelming allure through its distinctive sense of weightlessness and mystique created by an irregular 7/4 meter.

Using progressive rock techniques that Nobuo Uematsu excels at, its subdivision of beats—such as 3+2+2 or 4+3—crafts a structure that brilliantly transports the listener to another realm.

First appearing in the 1994 Super Famicom release, it was used as the theme for dungeons and event scenes related to the Espers.

It is a must-listen masterpiece for those who want to experience an otherworldly, fantastical atmosphere or savor the appeal of odd time signatures.

Robot StopKing Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard

King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard – Robot Stop (Official Video)

This experimental masterpiece brilliantly embodies the conceptual theme of an infinite loop through an uneven 7/4 meter.

The clever subdivision of 4 + 3 creates a distinctive groove you can’t get from regular even time signatures, giving the listener a constant forward-driving momentum and a pleasant sense of tension.

Opening the April 2016 album “Nonagon Infinity,” this track occupies a crucial position as both the starting point and the endpoint of a circular structure in which all nine songs connect seamlessly.

Its arrangement, which deftly shifts the 7/4 riff against 4/4 and 3/4, demands advanced musicianship, but ultimately elevates the complexity of odd time into pure thrill and excitement.

An absolute recommendation for anyone eager to dive into the world of odd meters or drawn to progressive sounds.

DemonsThe National

The National – “Demons”

This is a signature track by the American indie rock band The National, where introspective lyrics and a distinctive 7-beat rhythm blend exquisitely.

The lyrics portray inner conflicts such as self-loathing and social anxiety, delicately expressing the protagonist’s confrontation with their own darkness.

The song consistently employs a 7/4 time signature throughout, and the subtle instability created by this odd meter musically embodies the themes of discomfort and inner tension found in the lyrics.

Released in April 2013 as the lead single from the album “Trouble Will Find Me,” it was nominated for Best Alternative Music Album at the 56th Grammy Awards.

It’s a recommended listen for those who want to experience the appeal of irregular time signatures or who seek deep emotional expression in music.

The Lion’s RoarCYNIC

CYNIC – The Lion’s Roar

The American progressive metal band CYNIC.

They originally started as a death metal band, but that element has gradually faded, and they have shifted toward progressive metal characterized by soaring, ethereal melodies.

This track, included on their third album, ‘Kindly Bent to Free Us,’ begins in 6/8 without any sense of odd meter, then surprises as it gradually shifts back and forth between 6/8 and 5/8.

Also noteworthy is the performance technique that never compromises the natural flow of the melody.

Seven DaysSting

Sting – Seven Days

Here’s a 5/4 time signature song from Sting’s fourth solo album, Ten Summoner’s Tales, released in 1993.

This track, which was also released as a single, features the legendary drummer Vinnie Colaiuta—active across genres from jazz to rock—on drums.

Despite being in 5/4, the song unfolds naturally without feeling awkward.

While the gentle melody and Sting’s vocals are certainly factors, isn’t Vinnie’s outstanding performance also a major reason? Be sure to pay attention to the drumming, which may seem simple at first but subtly shifts its expression with refined technique.

Tattooed Love BoysPretenders

Pretenders – Tattooed Love Boys (Official Music Video)

This song is one of the Pretenders’ signature tracks, brilliantly embodying the fusion of late-’70s punk and new wave.

While it tackles a heavy theme drawn from Chrissie Hynde’s personal experiences, it shines as a piece that skillfully combines 7/8 and 4/4, showcasing the allure of mixed meter.

The forward-leaning tension created by the 7/8 in the verses contrasts exquisitely with the sense of stability when it returns to 4/4 in the chorus, giving the whole track a distinctive thrill.

Released to the world in 1979 as the B-side to the single “Kid,” it was included on their 1980 debut album Pretenders, which topped the UK charts.

It’s a must-hear for anyone interested in irregular time signatures or eager to experience an evolved form of punk rock.