polyphonic

[Mahumadi]

Two or more independent melodies occurring simultaneously. So, music with a rhythm guitar, lead guitar, bass, and drums would be considered Polyphonic?

I understand it as a melody being a succession of sounds. Does that mean that each instrument is playing its own melody?

[mambo4]

technically yes.

but I usually in an band set up as described above, a consider one instrument to be the lead melody, and everyone else playing supportive melodic phrases beneath.

[SpawnofHastur]

No, a lead guitar, rhythm guitar, bass and drums fits in the category of homophonic music. Melody driven, but homophonic.

[mambo4]

I suppose that's what I meant by " everyone else playing supportive melodic phrases beneath. "

The truth is it depends on how the band approaches the music, and the style being played.