Giraffes? Giraffes!

Giraffes? Giraffes!

are a seminal duo in the American math rock scene, emerging from Western Massachusetts in the mid-2000s. Their sound is characterized by a maximalist approach to the guitar-and-drums format, utilizing extensive live looping and complex polyrhythms. Joseph Andreoli's guitar work is heavily reliant on tapping and effects, creating a lush, often psychedelic harmonic bed over which Kenneth Topham performs highly technical, jazz-influenced percussion. Their career arc shows a progression from the raw, aggressive energy of 'SUPERBASS!!!!' toward more long-form, atmospheric compositions seen in 'Memory Lame' and 'Death Breath'. They occupy a central position in the 'second wave' of math rock, bridging the gap between the abrasive noise of Hella and the more melodic, 'twinkly' emo-adjacent math rock of the 2010s. Critical consensus highlights their ability to maintain a sense of fun and spontaneity despite the extreme technical difficulty of their music. They are often cited as a primary influence on the modern 'math-hop' and instrumental guitar scenes.