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Showing posts with the label Progressive Rock

Chimpan A - Music is Art Vol.1 (2025)

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Music Is Art, Vol. 1 delivers a deeply emotive and genre-blurring experience rooted in progressive-rock ambition and heartfelt expression. Susan voices swirl amid funk, blues, and electronic textures, while spoken‑word passages elevate the emotional intensity. Songs like “Wolves,” “I Will Wait For You,” and “Saviour” deliver lyrical depth, orchestral sweep, and soul-stirring resonance. The closing trio of “The Keeper,” “Invisible People,” and “Dreaming Will Kill Us Dead” haunt with poetic weight and melodic beauty. Overall, it stands as a compelling and humanistic musical tapestry—a defiant antidote to superficial sound bites—crafted to be absorbed in full, in one meaningful listen. Genre : Progressive Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 79% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 12th / 580 Highlight : Dreaming Will Kill Us Dead Made me think of: Magenta Archive Marillion #newalbum #newalbum2025 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ProgressiveR...

Styx - Circling From Above (2025)

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Circling From Above finds Styx standing strong on their eighteenth album—a concept record that explores humanity’s tension between technology and nature through vivid, prog-inflected storytelling. The opening instrumental title track sets the tone with swirling harmonies and moody textures, evoking Pink Floyd atmospherics before launching into “Build and Destroy,” a track blending vintage Styx vocals with fresh synthesizer motifs. Throughout the album, band members Lawrence Gowan, Tommy Shaw, James Young, and newcomer Will Evankovich share lead duties, offering a multi-vocal tapestry enhanced by tight harmonies and crisp production. Standout tracks like “King of Love,” “Blue Eyed Raven,” and “We Lost the Wheel Again” integrate acoustic flourishes, Latin rhythms, and arena-ready riffing reminiscent of The Who. At just over 40 minutes, the album packs narrative and musical ambition into a concise and cohesive package. Critics have lauded it as a mature, thematic triumph—proof that Styx ...

Fleesh - Versions VI (2025)

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Versions VI is the latest entry in Fleesh’s acclaimed series of reinterpretive albums, offering ten nuanced covers of rock classics. The mood is emotionally resonant, shifting from introspective passages to dramatic climaxes across tracks like “Epitaph” . Gabby Vessoni’s vocals take center stage, offering fresh emotional textures over Celo Oliveira’s lush instrumental backdrops. The production is polished yet retains organic warmth, helping each cover feel like a thoughtful tribute rather than a mere replication. Some listeners find the familiarity of beloved tunes both comforting and challenging—comforting in delivery but occasionally less surprising. As usual, Versions VI feels like Fleesh at their most refined: thoughtful, affectionate, and musically expressive. Genre : Progressive Rock Country : Brazil Final Verdict: 73% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 19th / 507 Highlight : Epitaph (added to my 2025 best of) Made me think of: Renaissance Mostly Autumn Agua de Annique #newalbu...

Steve Hackett - The Lamb Stands Up Live At The Royal Albert Hall (2025)

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Steve Hackett’s The Lamb Stands Up Live At The Royal Albert Hall is a meticulously executed celebration marking 50 years of The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway . The performance presents a complete live rendition, imbued with vibrant energy and audience connection in the iconic Royal Albert Hall, while guest musicians like Ray Wilson and Steve Rothery elevate classic passages. The setlist interweaves Genesis staples with Hackett’s solo material, offering balance between nostalgia and renewed interpretation. Production—mixed by Chris Lord‑Alge and mastered by Ted Jensen—achieves clarity without sacrificing live warmth, though some moments feel slightly over-extended in their execution. For fans old and new, it stands as a crowning achievement in the Genesis Revisited series and a compelling document of Hackett’s enduring artistry. Genre : Progressive Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 69% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 55th / 499 Highlight : The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway (Live in London 202...

Isgaard - The Water In You (2025)

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Isgaard's ninth studio album, The Water In You , is a luminous blend of art pop and progressive rock, weaving together cinematic soundscapes and introspective themes. The album delves into topics such as climate change, societal divisions, and personal introspection, all unified by the metaphor of water as a symbol of connection and life. Tracks like "Now I'm The Water In You" and "We Should Have Known" showcase Isgaard's ethereal vocals and the album's atmospheric arrangements. Critics have praised the album's cohesive structure and emotional depth, noting its ability to balance delicate melodies with profound lyrical content. Overall, The Water In You stands as a testament to Isgaard's artistry and her capacity to craft music that resonates on both a personal and universal level. The Prog Mind: Isgaard – The Water in You Bandcamp: The Water In You | Isgaard ProgRock Journal: Isgaard published the official lyric video for ...

Cosmograf - The Orphan Epoch (2025)

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Cosmograf's tenth studio album, The Orphan Epoch , marks a departure from traditional concept albums, presenting a collection of songs unified by themes of nonconformity and introspection. Robin Armstrong's songwriting delves into contemporary issues, exploring disconnection and the search for individuality in a polarized world . Musically, the album blends progressive rock with elements of neo-prog, featuring intricate arrangements and emotive melodies. Tracks like "Seraphim Reels" stand out, with Peter Jones' saxophone adding a haunting layer to the composition . Overall, The Orphan Epoch showcases Armstrong's evolution as an artist, delivering a poignant and thought-provoking listening experience. The PROG Mind: Cosmograf – The Orphan Epoch Prog Archives: Cosmograf – The Orphan Epoch The Progressive Aspect: Cosmograf – The Orphan Epoch Genre : Progressive Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 159th / 399 Highlight ...

Tusmørke - En pakt med naturen (live at Big Dipper) (2025)

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En pakt med naturen immerses listeners in a stripped-down, acoustic exploration of Tusmørke's psychedelic folk roots. The live setting at Big Dipper enhances the album's authenticity, allowing the band's intricate melodies and haunting harmonies to resonate deeply. Tracks like "Cycle of the Gylfaginning" and "Den Behornede Guden" showcase the group's ability to weave tales steeped in Norse mythology and naturalistic themes. The absence of electronic instrumentation lends a timeless quality to the performance, drawing parallels to ancient folk traditions. This release not only celebrates Tusmørke's 25-year journey but also solidifies their place in the contemporary folk scene. ProgRock Journal: Tusmørke to release first ever live album on May 2025 Apple Music: En pakt med naturen (Live at Big Dipper) Genre : Progressive Rock Country : Norway Final Verdict: 68% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 40th / 348 Highlight : Kjentmannen (live at Bi...

Moon Halo - Trichotomy (2025)

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Trichotomy marks Moon Halo's third studio album, showcasing their evolution in melodic progressive rock. The album blends introspective lyrics with intricate instrumentation, delivering a sound that is both accessible and richly layered. Tracks like "Siren Song" open with reflective piano melodies, building into uplifting choruses, while "Empires Burning" delves into darker themes with heavier riffs and poignant lyrics addressing societal unrest. The closing track, "The Masterplan," stands out with its eight-minute runtime, featuring extended instrumental sections that highlight the band's musical prowess. Critics have praised the album for its cohesive structure and emotional depth, noting that it resonates with listeners seeking both melodic hooks and thoughtful compositions.   Hotel Hobbies: Album Review: Moon Halo - Trichotomy (2025) The PROG Mind: Moon Halo – Trichotomy Bandcamp: Trichotomy by Moon Halo Genre : Progressive Rock C...

The Flower Kings - Love (2025)

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LOVE marks The Flower Kings' 17th studio album, showcasing their enduring commitment to symphonic progressive rock. The album draws inspiration from the late '60s and early '70s, featuring rich textures of Mellotrons, Moogs, and intricate compositions. Tracks like "We Claim The Moon" and "Burning Both Edges" highlight the band's ability to blend melodic sensibilities with experimental flair. Critics have noted the album's cohesive structure, designed to be experienced as a continuous journey, with themes of unity and introspection woven throughout. The band's lineup, combining original members Roine Stolt, Hasse Fröberg, and Michael Stolt with newer additions Mirko DeMaio and Lalle Larsson, delivers a performance that balances nostalgia with fresh energy. Overall, LOVE stands as a testament to The Flower Kings' mastery in crafting expansive, emotive prog rock landscapes. Prog Report: The Flower Kings announce new full-length alb...

Cosmic Cathedral - Deep Water (2025)

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Deep Water is the debut album from Cosmic Cathedral, a supergroup featuring Neal Morse, Phil Keaggy, Chester Thompson, and Byron House. The album blends progressive rock with elements of jazz fusion and yacht rock, resulting in a sound described as "prog meets yacht-rock meets The Beatles" . The centerpiece is the 38-minute "Deep Water Suite," a multi-part epic that showcases the band's improvisational chemistry and musical prowess. Critics have praised the album's cohesive structure and the seamless integration of diverse musical influences . While some listeners note the album's overt Christian themes, others appreciate its spiritual depth and lyrical sincerity .​ The Prog Report: Cosmic Cathedral - Deep Water (Album Review) Sonic Perspectives: COSMIC CATHEDRAL - Deep Water (Album Review) All About The Rock: Cosmic Cathedral – Deep Water: Album Review Louder Sound: Cosmic Cathedral reassert their beliefs on debut LP Deep Water Pro...

Jordsjø & Breidablik - Kontraster (2025)

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Kontraster is a collaborative split album by Norwegian progressive acts Jordsjø and Breidablik, commemorating their 10-year musical journey. Each band contributes a 20-minute track, exploring the theme of "contrasts" through their distinct sonic lenses. Jordsjø's composition weaves intricate melodies with vintage prog influences, while Breidablik delves into ambient textures inspired by the Berlin School. The album showcases the versatility of progressive rock, blending atmospheric soundscapes with dynamic rhythms. Critics have praised Kontraster for its cohesive yet diverse exploration of prog's expansive terrain. ​ Prog Archives Review Bandcamp - Jordsjø Bandcamp - Breidablik Apollon Records Announcement ​ Genre : Progressive Rock Country : Norway Final Verdict: 68% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 36th / 319 Highlight : Kontraster part 1 Made me think of: Anglagard Tusmørke Porcupine Tree (Voyage 34 Era) #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #new...

Oak - The Third Sleep (2025)

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Oak's The Third Sleep is a masterful blend of atmospheric textures and progressive rock elements. The album weaves intricate melodies with emotive vocals, creating a soundscape that's both haunting and beautiful. Tracks like "Dreamless Sleep" and "Silent Whispers" showcase the band's ability to balance complexity with accessibility. Critics have praised the album's cohesive structure and the seamless integration of electronic elements. Overall, The Third Sleep stands as a compelling addition to Oak's discography, reflecting their evolution and depth as artists. ​ Album of The Year: Oak - The Third Sleep ​ Album of the Year Genre : Progressive Rock Country : Norway Final Verdict: 66% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 57th / 317 Highlight : Borders Made me think of: Riverside Porcupine Tree The Pineapple Thief #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ProgressiveRock #Oak...

Glass Hammer - Rogue (2025)

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Glass Hammer’s Rogue , released on April 11, 2025, marks their 22nd studio album and a notable shift towards a more melodic and atmospheric sound. The album explores themes of regret, heartache, and the fleeting nature of life, presenting a narrative of a man's introspective journey. Musically, it blends symphonic prog with 80s-inspired electronica, featuring lush keyboards and emotive vocals from new members Thomas Jakob and Olivia Tharpe. Tracks like “Terminal Lucidity” and “I Will Follow” highlight the band's ability to craft immersive soundscapes that resonate with listeners. Critics have praised Rogue as one of Glass Hammer's most satisfying releases in years, noting its cohesive storytelling and rich musicality. ​ Sources: glasshammer.bandcamp.com progradar.org spiritofcecilia.com progarchives.com michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com Genre : Progressive Rock Country : US Final Verdic t: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 125th / 289 Highlight : Terminal Luc...

Solstice - Clann (2025)

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Solstice's eighth studio album, Clann , released on April 4, 2025, concludes their 'Sia' trilogy, following the acclaimed Sia (2020) and Light Up (2022). The album showcases the band's signature fusion of progressive rock, folk, and new age elements, enriched by the consistent lineup since 2020. Tracks like "Firefly" and the 14-minute epic "Twin Peaks" highlight their ability to blend intricate musicality with emotive storytelling. Critics have praised Clann for its sophisticated compositions and the seamless interplay between instruments and vocals, marking it as a significant achievement in Solstice's four-decade career. ​ Genre : Progressive Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 79th / 276 Highlight : Twin Peaks Made me think of: Mostly Autumn Oddleaf Lazuli #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ProgressiveRock #Solstice #UK #LP #Album #relea...

Ash Twin Project - Tales Of A Dying Sun (2025)

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Ash Twin Project's debut album, Tales Of A Dying Sun , showcases a compelling fusion of progressive metal and post-rock elements. The band's intricate compositions blend technical precision with emotive atmospheres, offering listeners a rich and immersive experience. Tracks like "CÅ“lacanthe" exemplify their ability to weave complex musical narratives that are both dynamic and contemplative. The album's thematic depth, inspired by the video game Outer Wilds , explores concepts of knowledge, solitude, and the human condition. Overall, Tales Of A Dying Sun positions Ash Twin Project as a promising act in the progressive music scene. ​ Genre : Progressive Rock Country : France Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 108th / 275 Highlight : CÅ“lacanthe Made me think of: Riverside The Pineapple Thief Mostly Autumn #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ProgressiveRock #AshTwinProject ...

Lesoir - Babel (2025)

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Lesoir's EP Babel , released in February 2022, is a bold 20-minute composition that showcases the band's progressive ambitions. The piece begins with a delicate vocal passage, evolving through various moods and atmospheres, incorporating instrumental flights that extend beyond traditional song structures. Critics have praised Babel for its adventurous spirit and the seamless integration of diverse musical passages, highlighting the band's ability to explore new territories while maintaining a cohesive narrative. This release serves as a testament to Lesoir's creative evolution and their willingness to push the boundaries of their sound. ​ At The Barrier Genre : Progressive Rock Country : Netherlands Final Verdict: 67% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 41th / 266 Highlight : Babel Made me think of: Mostly Autumn XII Alfonso Riverside #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ProgressiveRock #Lesoir #Netherla...

IQ - Dominion (2025)

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IQ's thirteenth studio album, Dominion , released on March 28, 2025, showcases the band's enduring mastery of progressive rock. The album comprises five tracks, including the expansive 22-minute opener, "The Unknown Door," which weaves intricate musical passages with compelling storytelling. Critics have praised the band's cohesive musicianship and the album's polished production, highlighting its ability to balance complexity with accessibility. Overall, Dominion reaffirms IQ's position as stalwarts of the progressive rock genre, delivering a record that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers. ​ Genre : Progressive Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 76% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 4th / 253 Highlight : No Dominion (added to my 2025 best of) Made me think of: Marillion Pendragon Arena #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #ProgressiveRock #IQ #UK #LP #Album #release  

Sonic Elements - IT (Highlights from a Celebration of The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway) (2025)

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Sonic Elements' IT (Highlights from a Celebration of The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway) offers a contemporary tribute to Genesis's seminal 1974 concept album. Led by Dave Kerzner, the project features notable musicians like Francis Dunnery and Nick D'Virgilio, who reinterpret tracks such as "In the Cage" and "Carpet Crawlers" with both reverence and modern flair. The inclusion of authentic 70's vintage instruments, including some of Tony Banks' original keyboards, adds a layer of authenticity to the performances. While some purists may prefer the original recordings, this tribute provides a fresh perspective that both honors and revitalizes the classic material. ​ Sources: Prog Radio Album of the Year Bandcamp Drum Talk TV Genesis News Forum Genre : Progressive Rock Country : US Final Verdict: 73% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 6th / 218 Highlight : The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway (feat. Francis Dunnery) Made me think of: Genesis (obvio...

Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks - Live - Perpetual Change (Live) (2025)

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Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks' Live – Perpetual Change delivers a masterful performance of classic Yes tracks, recorded during their August 2023 tour. Anderson's vocals remain remarkably clear and powerful, defying his 80 years. The Band Geeks adeptly replicate the intricate compositions, with standout renditions of "Close to the Edge" and "The Gates of Delirium." The setlist, featuring gems like "Starship Trooper" and "Awaken," offers over two hours of immersive progressive rock. This release is a testament to the enduring legacy of Yes and Anderson's unwavering artistry. ​ Sources: The Progressive Aspect Louder Sound Get Ready to ROCK! At The Barrier Goldmine Magazine Genre : Progressive Rock Country : UK Final Verdict: 70% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 14th / 213 Highlight : Close to the Edge Made me think of: Yes (obviously) Emerson, Lake & Palmer Gentle Giant #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic...

Karfagen - Omni (2025)

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"Omni" showcases Karfagen's mastery in crafting expansive progressive rock landscapes. The album features a stellar lineup, including contributions from Richard Sinclair (vocals, bass), John Hackett (flute), and Jean Pageau (vocals), among others. Tracks like "Omni - Stage 1" and "Omni - Stage 10" highlight the band's ability to intertwine melodic themes with complex arrangements, offering listeners a journey through varied musical textures. The inclusion of live drums, guitars, and flutes adds a dynamic and organic feel to the compositions. Overall, "Omni" is a testament to Karfagen's dedication to the progressive rock genre, delivering an album that is both intricate and accessible. ​ Prog Rock Journal antonykalugin.bandcamp.com Genre : Progressive Rock Country : Ukraine Final Verdict: 66% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 38th / 206 Highlight : The Spark Made me think of: Camel Glass Hammer The Flower kings #newalbum #newalbum20...