Polymeter

Polymeter is a rhythmic technique where multiple time signatures (like 3/4 and 4/4) are played simultaneously, each maintaining its own meter and cycle. Unlike polyrhythm (which overlaps note groupings within the same measure), polymeter keeps separate bar lengths, causing the patterns to phase in and out over time. This creates a sense of shifting rhythm and evolving groove, commonly found in modern jazz, contemporary classical music, African traditional music, and progressive metal.