Original, innovative; experimental in approach.

Pioneering, innovative; that is a forerunner in its field.

That sets the pace, rate, or standard to be achieved or emulated by others; trendsetting. Chiefly figurative.

Innovative and new; pioneering; characterized by bold originality. Cf. break, v. phrases 3c.

Active at the forefront of new developments or ideas within a particular field; playing a significant or influential role in a social, political…

That represents a significant or sudden advance in knowledge, achievement, or success; groundbreaking, pioneering. Also: that constitutes a…

figurative. The forefront or vanguard, esp. of technological development. Frequently (with hyphen) attributive.