Prog Rock: A Beginner’s Guide

Scot picks the 12 albums he would recommend to a new fan interested in Prog. Did he get it right?
#progrock #progressiverock #prog

[@jude3712]

I accidentally stumbled upon “In The Court Of The Crimson King” a few years ago. That was the best time of my life and it's what got me into prog rock!

[@TheProgCorner]

What a happy accident!!! Welcome to the Wonderful World Of Prog!!!

[@Poseiden2]

I heard it for the 1st time when I went to uni. I grew up with 80s pop and hadn't even heard Pink Floyd at that point. Listening to albums like KC's debut, Larks Tongues In Aspic and Red made me feel like I'd been knocked on the floor. Real game-changers!

[@TheProgCorner]

❤️👍

[@danaaronmusic]

First, my definition is simple: Prog is rock music that doesn't follow the rules. Second, your list is automatically awesome because it includes Folklore. Third, as a bonus, I would slip in a few carefully selected classical and jazz albums to create the context for some of what they are hearing on the prog albums; they are probably already familiar with the rock influences that go into it.

[@gianmarcoforastiere5295]

Feel free to share some jazz and classical music albums for beginners :)

[@TheProgCorner]

That’s actually a good episode idea!!!

[@patrice8796]

Very nice list. I think I would go just a bit lighter with the following, in no particular order. Some are the same as yours: Asia - Asia Supertramp - Crime of the Century Peter Gabriel - Security (or Plays Live) Marillion - Misplaced Childhood Rush - Moving Pictures Saga - World Apart (or In Transit) Genesis - Duke (very accessible, many hits and still proggy) Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon Yes - The Yes Album Big Big Train - Folklore (my current favorite band) Steven Wilson - To The Bone (H.C.E. is a better album but I think this one is easier to digest). King Crimson - Discipline (to me, not as demanding as ITCOTCK, and the songs are shorter) Good video as usual 👍

[@TheProgCorner]

I approve!!! Very excellent.

[@BarnabyWild13]

Found Big Big Train recently, I love it!

[@roygoad2870]

I would say The Moody Blues and Procol Harum are worth mentioning as major bands that pushed the boundaries into progressive music and should definitely be mentioned when doing an assessment of Prog, most people say Days of Future Passed-Moody Blues is the first true progressive rock album!

[@kratino]

I don't think there's anything prog about Asia other than the players. Definitely not the music.

[@leeandrassy6815]

Awesome selections Scot!

[@TheProgCorner]

Thank you!!! 👍👍👍

[@SweaterSwagg]

Great video and channel, your passion for the music is endearing!

[@TheProgCorner]

Oh wow!!! Thank you so much!!! ❤️❤️

[@marcbergeron8690]

1. Genesis - Foxtrot 2. Emerson Lake And Palmer - Trilogy 3. Gentle Giant - Acquiring the Taste (since I discovered Gentle and it’s a long period, I considered ATT the best one but I’m slowly basculating into Three friends) 4. Caravan - In the Land Of Grey and Pink (because Richard Sinclair is irreplaceable) 5. Van Der Graaf Generator - Pawn Hearts (if you check the credentials you notice that Fripp is on this album) 6. PFM - Photos Of Ghosts (ex aequo with The World Became the World) 7. Ekseption - Ekseption 5 8. Aphrodite’s Child - 666 (I love the unique voice of Demis Roussos but he has made lots of muzak, often good musak) 9. King Crimson - Lizard (The first time I heard Lizard, I wanted to destroy it with an axe and it would have occurred if not of the superb artwork. It would have been such a mistake). 10. Rick Wakeman - The Six Wives Of Henry VIII. 11. Novalis - Novalis 12. Harmonium - Si On avait besoin d’une Cinquième Saison For those who would like a glimpse into the classical roots of progressive music I suggest the immortal work of Aaron Copland.

[@TheProgCorner]

Some awesome selections!!!

[@jesusangelesparra4596]

No Camel???

[@TheProgCorner]

Camel is actually a great call for a newbie!!!

[@hanssipkes8179]

Ekseption, you must be Dutch ik zou hun eerste hebben gekozen maakte destijds veel indruk! Vandaar naar The Nice en uiteraard ELP.

[@truthteller3024]

You deliberately excluded Pink Floyd which is a big mistake. FYI I have listened to all of your choices and more.

[@DSBenevides]

Great list ! Congratulations !

[@TheProgCorner]

Thank you!!!

[@robertharvey2604]

Great list!

[@Raggaennight]

Thank you for the beginner guide, I think with it a nice introduction of what make a song or a music progressive would help a lot.

[@TheProgCorner]

Yeah!!! That’s a good idea!!! Maybe I should do a “companion” episode with individual track recommendations!!!

[@davidbarealopez9825]

Thank you Scott!!

[@TheProgCorner]

❤️❤️❤️👍👍👍

[@tcharelees]

so cool you have all of them on vinyl. new prog listener here. absolutely love king crimson and hope to discover more artists from this little guide!

[@TheProgCorner]

Stick around and let me be your guide!!!

[@zundap100]

Very nice list, thanks man👍🙂

[@TheProgCorner]

Thank you, Dan!!! 👍👍❤️

[@maryelms5948]

Very Nice List. A couple other bands that would be good to ease people into Prog. would be CAMEL - Moonmadness and Marillion - Misplaced Childhood.

[@TheProgCorner]

Camel is a great call. I thought about Marillion but yeah, Camel fits the bill perfectly. The Snow Goose would work too!!

[@jensdewit6642]

Exactly what I thought, Camel should be in the list. They are the reason I fell in love with progressive rock, maybe Wishbone Ash fits in this list as well... Albums like Argus!

[@TheProgCorner]

Argus!!! Love that album!!!

[@thebookishbryants]

Yes!! I was looking for a beginner's starter kit. I saw your appearance with Pete Pardo and I came to see what you had. I am just getting into prog at 47 years old and I needed a video like this! Thank you, sir!!

[@TheProgCorner]

Thank you!!! I’m here as your spiritual guide through the labyrinth of Prog!!!

[@synen]

Just found your channel, as a long time prog rock fan, subscribed!

[@TheProgCorner]

Glad you’ve here!!!

[@keithajacoby]

Fast becoming a fan Scott, thank you for opening up my program universe beyond my sphere of familiarity!

[@TheProgCorner]

I have that effect on people!!! 👍👍👍

[@johnpresnell]

Excellent list, now I know what I’m missing in my collection!

[@TheProgCorner]

That’s the idea!!! Sharing the love!!! 👍❤️🤘

[@Prog-Radio]

I honestly can't improve on your list, it's perfect!

[@TheProgCorner]

Thanks, Kevin!!!

[@thelordkk512]

Great video mate

[@TheProgCorner]

Thank you!!!!!!!!

[@chrissorsby7520]

Scot cheers up my day ❤️

[@TheProgCorner]

Thank you, Chris!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@PatSmith-cp8rg]

Great show Scott. Missed the hat. Loved your picks. I would have added Gentle Giant Octopus or Free Hand. I do love me some Brain Salad Surgery. On The Threshold Of A Dream would be another one. Great work.

[@TheProgCorner]

Awesome suggestions and yeah, the hats are coming back!!!

[@slobodanudarac5]

Great Starter Kit!

[@TheProgCorner]

Thank you!!!

[@psykodj67]

Hello Scott Im Paul ..just tripped on your channel due to Rachel the Music Maam shoutout and I subbed..Love the dozen here..Yes,ELP Crimson all here ..what no Nectar lol ...You got me on Big Big Train and Transatlantic gonna have to listen to those.Great stuff great video thanx for sharing and take care

[@TheProgCorner]

Definitely give them a listen and let me know what you think!!! Transatlantic is probably my favorite Prog band since the seventies…

[@mrmellow01]

Came here since ive listened to Itll all workout in Boomland countless times at this point and want more of what prog has to offer!!

[@starcloister4651]

Seems like you're into a lot more of the mature prog that actually progresses the genre. I'm more into the nostalgic "English dudes singing about fantasy and rural British stuff while wearing capes and playing crazy keyboard solos" kind of prog. My 12 recommendations would be: 1. Yes - Going For the One 2. Genesis - Selling England by the Pound 3. Rush - Hemispheres 4. Pendragon - The Masquerade Overture 5. IQ - Dark Matter 6. Wobbler - From Silence to Somewhere 7. Tiger Moth Tales - Cocoon 8. Kansas - Leftoverture 9. ELP - Tarkus 10. Frost* - Milliontown 11. Moon Safari - Blomljud 12. Starcastle - Fountains of Light

[@TheProgCorner]

All excellent albums!!! Moon Safari!!! HELLZ YEAH!!!!

[@starcloister4651]

@@TheProgCorner I know, they're criminally underrated. I channeled them hardcore when I wrote my newest big epic song. At least in the first 6 or so minutes, haha.

[@CressAlwein]

I'm subbing. I'm. A huge Pink Floyd, Queen and King Crimson fan and your recommendations in this vids are spot on. Cheers!

[@TheProgCorner]

Thank you very much!!! This makes me happy!!! 👍👍❤️❤️

[@glennthompson1173]

I totally agree with your first nine choices your three last choices I don't know really a lot about them I've heard bits and pieces of them. I would probably go with marillion afraid of sunlight. This is a beginner to listen to the Prog genre. Nice picks all in all. I love your content, keep up the fine work.

[@TheProgCorner]

I thought long and hard about Marillion and almost included Misplaced Childhood. Afraid Of Sunlight is another great choice. What a band!!!

[@glennthompson1173]

@@TheProgCorner Clutching might be a good choice too?

[@TheProgCorner]

My favorite Fish era LP.

[@eatmysteel]

Great list and an even greater concept! When I thought about this, my goal would be taking someone who is prog-ignorant and turning them into a full-blown prog-head like our own doomed selves :D So, my theory would be to start with some of the more basic and mainstream prog stuff and slowly integrate them into some of the more off-the-wall and lesser-known prog material gradually. I take into consideration my own path into prog music, the stuff that resonated with my younger self back to my own high school days, what spoke to me personally, which results in this mix (#1 being most accessible, #12 being the belly of the beast): 1. Abacab - Yes it's Collins, but it's also the best album to forget the later Collins 2. Darkside - No-brainer 3. Leftoverture - Like Darkside, many casual listeners don't even consider Kansas prog 4. Permanent Waves - Still some radio songs, but a bit more to sink your teeth into than Pictures (Oh sweet Natural Science :O ) 5. Fragile - Has a bit of everything of Yes (The Yes album actually put me off a bit from them) 6. Camel (debut) - Lesser known band, but a very accessible album for them, some shorter tunes 7. Novella - Powerful album, angelic female vocal shows the potential range of the genre 8. Thick as a Brick - The album that made me realize you don't need multiple short tracks, still gets radio play 9. The Wake of Poseidon - Wake up, full blown prog has landed! 10. Metropolis Part 2 - Brings in the metal aspect of modern prog 11. Free Hand - Uber complex, but still modest track lengths of Giant 12. De-Loused in the Comatorium - The possibilities of prog are endless from here on out Honorable Mention: I also thought about adding something like the Dead's Terrapin Station as another bridge from a band not typically thought of in the prog vein. Perhaps that's it's own list, prog albums from non-prog (or not thought of as prog) bands? Love it man

[@TheProgCorner]

Terrapin Station is pure genius. And I actually almost went with Novella!! Damn, I love Renaissance!!!

[@Hartlor_Tayley]

@@TheProgCorner Kansas the Dead, Renaissance, those work.

[@eb7713]

Camel...my hubby and I have been listening to them quite a bit lately. I hear the guitarist is having health issues. 😢 Awesome band!

[@TheProgCorner]

Unfortunately they had to cancel the upcoming tour…😢

[@user-pl8ez3mm8b]

NOVELLA !! What a great one to help get women into prog. My 7th favorite in all music. Like Scot, Tales is the finest music ever written or recorded in all music history. But Novella is right up there too.

[@TCatsDeepVinylTraxx]

Great starter prog albums. I could think of several others, but you got some great ones there, easy to get into, no side-long tracks, a lot less meter changes or odd time signatures, and so on. Love your Steven Wilson suggestion, I would prefer the Raven album myself. Also, pretty much any Alan Parsons album or Blue Oyster Cult album would be easy to swallow for a beginner. The best thing is to make it easy for the listener to fall in love with the genre, then throw some Gentle Giant, Bass Communion or Mars Volta on them to really challenge them....

[@TheProgCorner]

Alan Parsons. Excellent call!!!

[@mikereiss4216]

Irobot would be a really good one imo.

[@goose7129]

The Wall really got me into prog so I’d say it would’ve been a great entry, but overall I agree it’s a great list

[@christiandubeau20]

"Hand. Cannot. Erase." played a big role in getting me into prog. I love the Raven album now, but didn't like it back when I wasn't into prog. Therefore, I think that HCE is the better option for a beginner. Good call, Scott!

[@georgeeleazer3376]

Nice list; I would just add Turn of a Friendly Card(Alan Parsons Project. Other honorable mentions include: Tarkus, Fragile, and Thick as a Brick; Though these albums are highly prog, I feel that the music is extremely accessible as these got me addicted to the genre. Keep up the great work!

[@TheProgCorner]

APP would be a completely acceptable option!!! ❤️❤️👍

[@hinesification]

Perfect picks. I agree with every single one.

[@TheProgCorner]

Thank you, Dean!!!

[@progrocktommyscorner]

Enjoyed your video. Nice choices. I might need to do a response video. One of my favorite Big Big Train albums is "The second brightest star". Have a great week - Edward

[@TheProgCorner]

I adore BBT. One of my favorite modern Prog bands!!! RIP: Dave Longdon. What a talent.

[@igorsveiga]

Hi from Brazil! First of all, I really like your channel and your lists are amazing! Talking about this video, it's a shame I don't know any of those new prog bands you've recommended. I need to know how they sound as fast as I can! Thanks!

[@TheProgCorner]

Thanks Igor!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@tonydonato8523]

You nailed it! They are all totally accessible. The only addition I would put in there is "Land of Grey and Pink". Also maybe "Script for a Jester's Tear" for the 80's.

[@TheProgCorner]

I thought about Marillion!!! Definifitely!!!

[@VinylCollektor23]

Of all places, I found In the Court of the Crimson King on vinyl at Best Buy. hahaha I definitely picked it up for an awesome price! Also love ELP! Jealous my folks saw them in the 70s among other greats. New subscriber thanks to Canadian Studmuffin's live chat! Cheers!

[@TheProgCorner]

We love that crazy Canuck!!! Larry’s a great guy. Hey, thanks for the sub!!!

[@MrBenMcLean]

Not too bad! Although I would have made a few different choices. For Genesis, I'd have gone with Foxtrot definitely. For Yes, I'd have gone with Fragile. For Jethro Tull, I'd have gone with Thick as a Brick. For Rush, I'd have gone with 2112 or maybe Hemispheres. For Kansas, I'd have gone with Point of No Return. For ELP, I'd have gone with Brain Salad Surgery because it's their best one and I think going for the best is what will get people hooked. So I'm more differing on choice of which album than which band. But what seems to be the biggest gap in this list to me is Ayreon. Seems like Ayreon should be on here! Particularly since Ayreon features so many guest singers from other prog bands. I am thinking The Source. I'd probably have put that on the list instead of Steven Wilson or Big Big Train, assuming I was limited to only 12.

[@robvickers2126]

Great list Scott. I may have gone for Nursery Chyme and ELP,s debut album. I would have included a Canterbury album, probably Caravan In the land of grey and pink, but can't argue with your choices or your reasoning. Great video. I know Folklore is a great album because if I put it on in the car nobody complains.

[@TheProgCorner]

I considered putting a Canterbury album in there but nothing felt definitive…

[@jameshoey303]

Love your laid back style...Genesis Foxtrot Suppers Ready so easily accessible so different always uplifting no real brain power needed ...BTW I just love your Spanish... accent

[@TheProgCorner]

¡Muy bien! (Well, my last name is Lade so…)

[@sergiyremezov1572]

Interesting... "A Trick of the Tail" was exactly the album that got me in love with Genesis in the first place

[@TheProgCorner]

I love that record so much. It’s perfect.

[@jefflevinson669]

The last decent Genesis album in my opinion

[@mikereiss4216]

I'm not sure I agree with KC's debut being the very first prog album (especially if you count proto prog) but I admit it's the one that made the genre an actual official thing and put it in the map. One of the most important (along with CTTE) for sure. Anyway, my picks would be close to the edge, in the court of the crimson king, ELP (debut), snowgoose, misplaced childhood, wish you were here (more proggy than dsotm imo), moving pictures, days of future passed, misplaced childhood. Also and this might be a bit much for a newbie but I'll say thick as a brick. That's about it. I can't think of many "modern" prog albums although they will definitely want to hear Anglagard's hybris at some point (hopefully before too long) as well as some Italian prog (my pick for that would maybe be per un amico).

[@TheProgCorner]

PFM is always a great call!!!

[@andrewdavis4652]

The 12 prog albums that I would use to introduce someone to the wonderful world of prog: 01. Rush: Exit... Stage Left 02. Rush: Clockwork Angels Tour 03. Yes: Magnification 04. The Moody Blues-To Our Children’s Children’s Children 05. Wobbler- Dwellers Of The Deep 06. Gentle Giant- Free Hand 07. King Crimson- In The Court Of The Crimson King 08. King Crimson- Discipline 09. Pink Floyd- Wish You Were Here 10. Jethro Tull- Songs From The Wood 11. Talking Heads- Remsin In Light 12. Kansas- Leftoverture Well, what do you think?

[@TheProgCorner]

Excellent choices!!! Wobbler is a good call and I almost included Free Hand so we are thinking alike here!!! ❤️👍

[@Liquidlen99]

Magnification is the best you can do for YES? Close to the Edge baby. 😊

[@DE_backoffice]

Great vid, thx ! Gentle Giant-- (all the oldies !); Fripp and Eno- Wind on Water; Brian Eno- Apollo; Hawkwind; Henry Cow; Jon Anderson- Olias of Sunhillow; Magma-UduWuduu; Van Der Graff Generator- Godbluff; Mahavishnu Orchestra-Inner Mounting Flame & Birds of Fire; Genesis-The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway; Yes-Tales from Topographic Oceans...... and, so many more great ones !

[@TheProgCorner]

Olias!!! Yes!!!

[@Lola-yx9gb]

That's the video I needed !! I got invited to join a prog band, but I don't know how that sounds... x) So, very useful, thanks !!!

[@TheProgCorner]

Sweet!!!

[@RandyforRoyals]

Glen will be happy the King Crimson album made the list. I have five of those albums so I guess I am half way with my starter kit. My only question is "What is prog rock again?" Cheers Scott.

[@TheProgCorner]

Exactly!!! I took one for the team!!!

[@peerayuthcharnsethikul5122]

My 12 for a new fan are The Yes Album (Yes) , Aqualung (Jethro Tull) , Dark Side of the Moon (Pink Floyd), Trepass (Genesis) , Tarkus (ELP) , Red (King Crimson), A Farewell to King (Rush), Image & Words (DT), Misplaced Childhood (Marillion), Fear of a Blank Planet (Porcupine Tree), The Light (Spock's Beard) and Blackwater Park (Opeth).

[@TheProgCorner]

Fantastic!!!

[@jeffjones1359]

Yes, Gateway prog! I love it! These are great records to kind of ease people in. You probably wouldn’t want to hit them over the head with Relayer right off the proverbial bat… I’ve been trying to do it with my gf for about two years now. It’s a tough deal but I’m working on her. She still just says, “yeah, that’s different”.🤔 The struggle goes on… Oops I almost forgot! One of my Dr.s plays acoustic guitar and likes folk. I recommended Thick as a Brick due to the English folk/renaissance sort of acoustic guitar work. He loved it! He actually asked me for more. Imagine that! And yes, Pete P should get a seat ready for you. And Nathan. 👍

[@TheProgCorner]

I love Nathan!!!

[@zsatsfm]

Great list Scot, can't fault it really. I would probably include a moody blues album, possibly Days of Future Passed, and maybe even Mike Oldfield's Tubular Bells, because it's very melodic.

[@TheProgCorner]

Tubular Bells was strongly considered and probably should have made the list. It’s recognizable to most so the hook could be very effective indeed.

[@markspooner1224]

I can't think of anything to add, that's a pretty good starting point although many people aren't open to anything different anyway unfortunately.

[@TheProgCorner]

True that!!! Sadly.

[@jeniferallan6693]

I cheered when you chose Supertramp!

[@TheProgCorner]

Seemed appropriate!!!

[@chrisshill5044]

Saw King Crimson at station square in Pittsburgh in the nineties. Wild time..

[@TheProgCorner]

Must have been a great show!!!

[@davivify]

Nice to meet you, oh, and Happy Birthday! Was curious - what the heck is "prog"? Never been to Prague but I hear they have great coffee shops. Heard of some of the artists you mentioned - heck, even some of the albums. I need to do another long road trip and definitely bring along some of that music. Big thanks!

[@TheProgCorner]

Absolutely!!! Prog and road trips do like PB and J!!!!

[@canadianstudmuffin]

Excellent picks. Prog rocks!! Love Steven Wilson! 🙂 I'd include "Death Walks Behind You" by Atomic Rooster and "Deadwing" by Porcupine Tree.

[@TheProgCorner]

I thought about Atomic Rooster!!!

[@Glornt]

I would definitely sub Deadwing for any Wilson solo album. It starts with kicking ass, then taking names, then a perfect ballad, some more near-metal greatness, then the epic "Arriving Somewhere...". It tapers off some after that, but it pretty much has to. Probably my #1 post-Y2K prog album.

[@nathanbaker5013]

Great list, I have been a progressive rock fan for 1 years now, my dad played some pink floyd songs in the car coming home from work, I was hooked. Basically spent a year constantly consuming prog. My favourite albums are the wall, close to the edge, ocean, a tab in the ocean and time and a word. I think yes albums are very god for beginners due to their pop era and they still have elements of pop in their early stuff.

[@TheProgCorner]

Yes was the band that hooked me. Followed immediately by ELP and Pink Floyd!!! A Tab In The Ocean. Yay!!! Nektar is awesome.

[@nathanbaker5013]

@@TheProgCorner brilliant album, thank you for your video. It really feels like there are more and more prog fans and musicians coming through now in my generation. I'm 17

[@TheProgCorner]

Awesome!!! We need the next generation to spread the word: Prog Rock is the greatest music ever!!! From King Crimson to King Gizzard!!!

[@nathanbaker5013]

@@TheProgCorner have a good day my friend, keep the videos up!

[@connied8374]

Jethro Tull was my intro to prog and I have never looked back at the other genres.

[@TheProgCorner]

Nice!!!! 👍👍❤️

[@55james]

i got into prog through Marillion's Misplaced Childhood, even though I was already heavy into Jethro Tull and Pink Floyd, I didn't think of them as prog. I guess that's why I expected to see Marillion in there... Great list!

[@TheProgCorner]

Misplaced Childhood was the last one I cut from the list!!!

[@fourseasons4105]

My picks: 1. Kansas- Point of know return 2. Supertramp- Crime of the century 3. Pink Floyd- The dark side of the moon 4. ELO- Out of the blue 5. Marillion- Misplaced childhood 6. Porcupine tree- In absentia 7. Jethro Tull- Songs from the wood 8. Rush- Moving pictures 9. Genesis- A trick of the tail 10. Dream Theater- Images and words

[@TheProgCorner]

Excellent!!!

[@terryjohnson5275]

Nice picks, every one a winner. Definitely the Yes Album for them or maybe Going for the One could work - or, if they arent into Prog at all try them out with 90125 and highlight songs like Hearts and Changes. Was Crimson's album the first prog album and at the end of the day what actually was and is prog - some people may not agree that Supertramp or DSOTM or Aqualung are prog. Maybe Crimson isnt necessarily the first prog album - you could argue that could be the Beatles' Sgt Pepper or The Moody Blues' Days of Future Passed or Procol Harum's first however it is the album that coalesced essential Prog ingredients into the first recognisably Prog album - I just hope a new listener doesn get put off by the improv section in Moonchild. Supertramp's Crime of the Century is a fantastic pick as it is poppy or light enough not to scare anyone off but is complex and deep enough to warrant being classified as Prog, all the songs are great, have hooks and the production is sublime. So would I add anything to your list - maybe a Moody Blues compilation like 'This is The Moody Blues', maybe Wishbone Ash's Argus, maybe Styx's Grand Illusion, maybe ELO's Out of the Blue, even perhaps Jeff Wayne's War of the Worlds or Alan Parsons' I Robot. Heck I may even try them out on Sweet's Level Headed. You could also argue that Queen 2 should be considered a Prog album and maybe The Who's Tommy - those two are to be discussed next week on Sea of Tranquility's In the Prog Seat.

[@TheProgCorner]

Every single bullet point there went through my head. It’s like you’re reading my mind!!! Moody Blues and Procol Harum are hugely influential in the development of Prog. I even though about Jeff Wayne. Crazy!!! Maybe one day old Pete Pardo will extend an invitation to sit in the Prog Seat!!!

[@Sammeep02]

That'd be cool. I've been watching Sea of Tranquility as a boredom cure for about 2 yrs now.

[@Jeremyracle-qb9mo]

Thanks for the list ! A good intro for novices would be almost anything by Oldfield or Wakeman. I was loving their albums and I didn't even realize I was listening to "Prog" - it was just great music !

[@TheProgCorner]

👍👍👍

[@eb7713]

I have been a Genesis fan since the late 70s and still listen to them (and the Beatles) almost daily. Mainly their older stuff. I was fortunate to meet Genesis backstage on the Duke tour in New Orleans at the Saenger Theater. I was in high school and painted a picture for them. Phil gave me a beat up Premiere tambourine in trade. Such sweet fellows! (That includes Chester Thompson and Daryl Stuermer.) I used to listen to mainly top 40 until I started dating a guy at 15. He and his friends opened up a HUGE new world of music for me! Especially prog (it was called classical rock back then). My fave bands are: Genesis, Peter Gabriel, Trapeze, King Crimson, ELP, Pink Floyd (especially Meddle), Camel, Glass Harp, Talking Heads, Tangerine Dream, Spirit, Laurie Anderson, Kate Bush (Sky of Honey suite from Aerial), and so many others. I would also add In-a-gadda-da-vida by Iron Butterfly, Hocus Pocus by Focus, and Argent as well. I love your list and plan to discover new-to-me prog adventures. 😊❤

[@TheProgCorner]

Excellent!!! That’s why I started the channel!!!

[@eb7713]

I'm so glad it showed up in my feed. I need to find a local group to listen to albums together like in the old times. Miss them, but I have 400 vinyls and a record player. Fun stuff! 😊

[@seanschmidt8408]

Caravan "In the Land of Grey and Pink" is a must for this list.

[@TheProgCorner]

Golf Girl alone demands it.

[@GlenKellawayfromthebasement]

Hey Scot..great video..Not sure if you are aware that Rachel The Music Mam put up a video promoting you and this video..You had me at King Crimson❤❤and Aqualung❤❤❤two of my top five albums of all time for any genre..my fav Rush album too, Moving Pictures..in my opinion Hand Cannot Erase is the best album released in the last 40 years..It is the only modern release that would make my greatest albums of all time list..great video..❤❤❤❤❤👍Glen

[@TheProgCorner]

I saw that and had to say hi.

[@MisterOutcast]

My picks for essential prog albums would definitely be "Going for the One" by Yes and "Crash of the Crown" by Styx.

[@TheProgCorner]

Very good calls🙏

[@antoniodias4718]

Anyone who wants to start with prog rock can't go wrong with this selection. My selection would be slightly different but I would almost certainly pick "In the Court of The Crimson King", "Aqualung", "The Yes album", "Trilogy", "The Dark Side Of The Moon", "Crime of the Century" and I think "A Trick Of The Tail" is very well chosen!! "Folklore" is fantastic!!! The others are very good too (I have to listen a little bit more to Transatlantic) Good job Scot!!

[@TheProgCorner]

Transatlantic is worth spending a little time with!!! 👍👍👍

[@TheTornadoMan]

If there’s a honorable mention to a great beginner prog album. I would say The Moody Blue’s Days of Future Passed. It’s a great introduction to symphonic prog while still having great hit songs like Nights In White Satin or Tuesday Afternoon.

[@TheProgCorner]

Absolutely!!!! I should have included it!!!

[@SEBINKU4001]

I get it for Trick of the Tail...but I would have gone with Selling Or Foxtrot on that one!

[@TheProgCorner]

A Trick Of The Tail is not my favorite Genesis album but I wanted to go with a Collins era record and ATOTT is definitely the winner there!!! Foxtrot, baby!!! You’re speaking my language!!!

[@SEBINKU4001]

@@TheProgCorner Foxtrot..I was amazed by the sleeve at 5...everything started there for me, big brother was in charge of the turntable! 40 years later I still have all these vinyl!...except that original Foxtrot, a friend lost it! Shame on me!

[@TheProgCorner]

Damn!!!

[@stevenhicks6660]

Really good picks and info Scott 💯. Of course I pick YES over every body. Have you ever heard of StarCastle??

[@TheProgCorner]

I really like their first three albums!!!

[@kellywann3794]

Great list! I have a couple of questions unrelated to the video. First, although early and clearly psychedelic, would you consider Tomorrow a prog band? Second, I’m playing catch up but I haven’t seen anything on Patrick Moraz. I remember waiting for The Story of I with the same anticipation I had with Peter Gabriel 1…. Great channel!

[@TheProgCorner]

Tomorrow could be considered both Psych and Proto-Prog. And yeah, I love The Story Of I. What a terrific album!!! It really opened my mind to different sounds and textures back when it first came out.

[@davidbagnall335]

Good you did not mention a Young Persons Guide To King Crimson. Albums for a Prog Starter may be, 1. Yes Yesterdays Album or Druid Towards The Sun, 2 Styx EP (Maxi Single). 3 Camel Nude, 4 Rick Wakeman 1984, 5 Tangerine Dream Exit 6 Marilion Script For A Jesters Tear and 7 Mike Olfied The Bell Extended CD from Tubular Bells II.

[@TheProgCorner]

Big fan of both Druid albums!!! Nude is super fabulous. Fantastic list!!!

[@eatmysteel]

Nude is a great underrated Camel album imo

[@scottkennedy5744]

Great list! (and great name!) I came here just to say ABACAB still blows me away, every time. Also, if Talking Heads is prog, I'd throw them on a beginner list!

[@TheProgCorner]

A good call!!!!

[@sidecardog5244]

Trick of the Tail and Leftoveture was my starting point for Prog. For modern Prog, I would add Flying Colors to the list. Pop, Rock, with a touch of Prog ( Kayla or Everything Changes).

[@TheProgCorner]

I love Neal Morse. Way too much.

[@Realbillball]

Great selection. I would have picked the first Greenslade album and one of the seven classic Moody Blues albums. Maybe one from IQ. Gentle Giant might not fit in here, but I'd give Octopus an honourable mention.

[@TheProgCorner]

The Moody Blues is a GREAT call.

[@HereXEG]

That was a great list! I knew you were going with Moving Pictures for Rush. Defiantly not their most prog album but it definitely has some heavy prog moments. My pic for Yes would have been Big Generator. Much like Moving Pictures it has a few more radio friendly songs that people might go, "oh I love that song but never knew it was prog". What are your thoughts on tool or Animals As Leaders?

[@TheProgCorner]

Both amazing bands!!! I don’t talk enough about either…

[@myprogrockshow3025]

Great video! I have a video coming out very similar to this that I recorded a couple of months ago. I didn’t know you had uploaded this video. Do you mind if I put a link to this video in the description of my upcoming letting people know you did it first?

[@TheProgCorner]

That would be awesome!!!!

[@tomsimmons7192]

I agree with all of your picks! GREAT show!!!

[@TheProgCorner]

Thanks, Tom!

[@johnnicholls7980]

For Dark Side of the Moon, I went to Vanier Park in Vancouver British Columbia Canada where they had the Pink Floyd Skylights show where they show all the stars and anything visible with a telescope when I was young with my older sister, and will never forget it .

[@TheProgCorner]

Sounds amazing!!!!

[@mikepearse5907]

Just watched this Scott. Great list. As a humongous Genesis fan I particularly agree with Trick... While Selling is my personal favourite, Trick is perfect for the starter pack. Leftoverture and Crime - also great choices for a starter pack. What about Misplaced Childhood from the (almost) modern era - totally accessible and totally prog!? I think I'd keep Crimson off the list, despite their highly elevated place in prog history...at least until we'd hooked the person in! 😉

[@TheProgCorner]

Probably right about ITCOTCK but I couldn’t leave it off. And I picked ATOTT specifically because of Phil Collins’ elevated status in the mainstream but SEBTP definitely works too!!! Thanks for the input, Mike!!! I truly appreciate you!!! ❤️❤️❤️👍👍👍

[@mikepearse5907]

@@TheProgCorner Can I just say that I love and appreciate that you respond as you do: enthusiastic, personable, fun, interesting, and always. I feel like going out for a coffee or beer (or both) and having a chat about any of your awesome posts with you would be a gift. My prog journey started in grade 7. I was at summer camp and my counsellor played Grand Illusion incessantly... and as soon as I heard the keyboards in Fooling Yourself, there was no turning back. Then came side one of Crime of the Century - the first album I bought for myself, which I listened to incessantly (along with Equinox, which was my next foray into Styx) This was soon followed by Point of no Return (Steinhardt's fiddle on the title track blew my 13 year old mind! I had a fever and the only prescription was more Kansas..and more prog). A Farewell to Kings opened a whole new discography to me from my own home-country band, RUSH. (Xanadu is sublime!) Then a few years later a friend invited me to see the Duke tour...my first of multiple Genesis concerts and I thought: this is it! This. Is. The. Motherload ( as in..." Deep in the..." 😊). I bought and listened to every Genesis album...and haven't stopped. Now I'm finding it fun to discover new bands along the way ( like Transatlantic, Pendragon, IQ, Barock Project, Kaipa, etc...big shout out to the comment below referring to Moon Safari!). Your posts have enriched this journey big time. Thanks, Scott...that was a fun trip down memory lane even if It was a bit of a "Roundabout" trip 😉I better go. Apparently my "Supper's Ready"! P.S. Speaking of Roundabout, I might sub Fragile in for the Yes Album. A newcomer will have likely heard Roundabout which may result in even more buy in to Prog!

[@eb7713]

So cool! I have been a Genesis fan since the late 70s and still listen to them (and the Beatles) almost daily. I was fortunate to meet Genesis backstage on the Duke tour in New Orleans at the Saenger Theater. I was in high school and painted a picture for them. Phil gave me a beat up Premiere tambourine in trade. Such sweet fellows! (That includes Chester Thompson and Daryl Stuermer.) 😊

[@doctorransom8715]

Hey thanks for the video. As a newbie it would be helpful if you listed the albums with the artist and the title. You kind of assume that we would recognize the album by sight. Good info thanks.

[@TheProgCorner]

I have since implemented those changes to my videos - this was an early one!!! I should do a newer, better version!!!

[@harryberry474]

I have a vinyl album King Crimson titled "A Young Person's Guide To King Crimson" it's stashed away with all my other vinyl records. Bought it sometime in the '70's I already had all their albums up to that point but I liked the cover art (which KC Shop UK has listed (has reused it recently) it's that long creature circling around a mountain peak with children riding it's back IIRC it was a gatefold album. My second favorite KC album cover the first of course ITCOTCK which a friend painted on a rental house basement wall ceiling to floor and complete fold-out screaming face and it was perfect in detail. The house was demolished after we moved out (actually burnt down). Your list has some really essential choices although I'd leave out Pink Floyd DSOTM and maybe Aqualung the reason being especially PF after all who hasn't heard DSOTM? Instead I would have chosen Yes Fragile and Genesis Foxtrot, Also I'd have ELP's First album instead of Trilogy, either they are going to be open to the heavier stuff or not a fan. About "prog" "progressive" back in the beginning as far as I know it wasn't called prog or progressive, I always called it "classical rock" (NOT to be mistaken for "classic rock") was that just me? Honestly I don't remember it being called prog or progressive in the 70's we lead sheltered lives back then no internet, no MTV, who knew?

[@TheProgCorner]

We invented a word to describe a genre that was also made up: PROG!!! Prog is just music - only better.

[@tobismusicchannel3033]

I have often thought about which albums I would give a newbie to get into the genre. So here's a list of 12 albums. I don't consider all of them "real" Prog, but they are certainly good entry points. 1. In The Court Of The Crimson King 2. Fragile 3. Selling England By The Pound 4. Dark Side Of The Moon 5. Aqualung 6. Moving Pictures 7. Crime Of The Century 8. Leftoverture 9. Misplaced Childhood 10. Images And Words 11. Lateralus 12. The Raven That Refused To Sing

[@TheProgCorner]

Wonderful list!!!

[@alissabuhse9337]

my favorite prog albums to recommend are the crazy world of arthur brown and any procol harum album for sure!

[@TheProgCorner]

Ah yes. Start ‘em at the beginning!!!!

[@wizardofoz6811]

Very good idea and nice list, Scot. I am thinking of a much more friendly list for outsiders of prog, a more gateway stuff. I think I will start from a more modern perspective and then continue with the earlier material. With a safer approach for new listeners. No metal sounding, no harsh disonances, a more mellow clear sound, a little more pop related, perhaps some link to things prog related as Supertramp or Queen. BUT, Stills needs to he proggy! And also with a more contemporary time related initial albums, so as to then slowly go backwards to the greater stuff. Here are some very good ones to begin: 1. Delusion Rain - Mystery 2 - Calling birds - Satellite 3 - Toy Matinee - Toy Matinee 4 - New world - Dave Kerzner 5 - Long Distance Voyager - The Moody Blues And after they have digested this one, your list follows

[@TheProgCorner]

Big Dave “Squids” Kerzner fan!!

[@Hartlor_Tayley]

The gateway stuff, absolutely

[@wizardofoz6811]

@@TheProgCorner glad to hear that. For those who are going up the path to reach Pink Floyd and that kind of stuff, Kerzner is a pleasant stop along the road

[@wizardofoz6811]

And from those records and bands I mentioned, please check the song "If you see her" by Mystery. A wonderful little gem Styx influenced, and the proof that prog bands can make hit and catchy songs in 7/4 and any other measures

[@TheProgCorner]

I’ve listened to some Mystery. I like what I’ve heard so I will definitely check it out. Which album was that on?

[@theswordofaces1222]

Good call with The Yes Album and Moving Pictures by Rush. But I think I would have gone with Point of Know return for a "starter" Kansas album.

[@TheProgCorner]

Perhaps…

[@deadfdr]

New to me: Under the Sun>>virtuosic, melodic, adventurous, variety of mood traveling, recommended

[@elongatedborzoi1160]

mine would be rush - 2112 & moving pictures pink floyd - wish you were here yes - close to the edge king crimson - red elp - self titled can - future days or ege bamyasi genesis - duke and selling england by the pound jethro tull - aqualung mars volta - the bedlam in goliath king gizzard and the lizard wizard - polygonwanaland

[@TheProgCorner]

Nice!!!

[@ScottAMedina]

Nice. I’d go almost all contemporary Prog as so much of it is crossover to modern rock styles. In Absentia is a MUST! Put a Marillion album in there, Frost*, Lifesigns, DBA, Spock’s, Radiohead, Riverside, Mystery, Pattern-Seeking Animals, etc… All that modern stuff and so much more is perfect for modern rock fans, I’d think. I wouldn’t do Transatlantic for beginners, much as I love them.

[@TheProgCorner]

It’s an impossible task but that’s kinda why I asked the question. Lifesigns!!! That’s exactly what I’m talking about!!! 👍👍👍

[@bryanwchambers9734]

I know this may not be recieved well but I would argue that Queen's Day at the Races would be a good gateway one as well to add. Prog for sure IMHO.

[@TheProgCorner]

I love Queen!!! They are an excellent gateway drug!!! ❤️👍❤️

[@D.Norton]

The Raven That Refused To Sing (Steven Wilson), Fear Of A Blank Planet (Porcupine Tree) and Pale Communion (Opeth) are MUST LISTEN, even for prog beginners.

[@TheProgCorner]

Three amazing records!!!

[@dangerdolls]

Prague rock is stone from Czechoslovakia. *nods* Nice list. Yeah, Court will scare them all off. LOL I also like to mention Procol Harum's debut as a precursor. It has two hits and accessible songs. And Ambrosia's debut has to be in there as well as Kansas to represent American prog. Modern prog is a lot harder to pick. My favorite from last year was the very accessible Only Human by Lee Abraham. Can't go wrong with either Raven or Hand so that's fine. And based on your theory of it as a gateway drug Transatlantic does seem a good choice.

[@TheProgCorner]

I love subtitles!!! It’s always Prague Rock!!! Czech and see.

[@dangerdolls]

@@TheProgCorner I know. It entertains me to no end. ;)

[@KilroyWasHere83]

The very first prog album of all time was Days of Future Passed by The Moody Blues from 1967.

[@TheProgCorner]

Or Frank Zappa’s Freak Out?

[@Talonglow]

I’m pretty familiar with prog bands like Dream Theater, TOOL, Porcupine Tree, Coheed and Cambria, and The Mars Volta, but I’ve never really explored much outside of those bands.

[@TheProgCorner]

The modern stuff!!! I love all those bands!! They all made my Top 100 Prog bands. Except Coheed.🥲Those bands took classic Prog and added a healthy dose of Metal and BAM!!! Dream Theater!!! If you dig them check out Mike Portnoy’s work with Transatlantic!!! That would be a good “bridge” to the Golden Era. 👍👍👍

[@jaybee7890]

Great list. For accessibility and beauty I may have thrown in a Camel and a Renaissance album!

[@TheProgCorner]

Renaissance is a great call. A little change of pace!!!

[@stukevideo]

No Supertramp, fer Krissakes! Thank you and Merry Christmas.

[@TheProgCorner]

Supertramp is a really good call!!!

[@NelsonMontana1234]

ELP-- first album, Tarkus and Brain Salad -- In the Court, of course. The YES album, Close to the Edge and Relayer. Thick as a Brick. Gentle GIant Octopus. U.K. Kansas Leftoverture. Rush, Moving Pictures. That's 12.

[@TheProgCorner]

Relayer for a newbie? Why not?!?? Give them CTTE and its dark twin.

[@byronlemay2166]

My intro to prog was at a Genesis concert in 1986. They were hardly "prog" at that time, but a guy sharing a joint next to me mentioned the song "Return of the Giant Hogweed". I thought "What the hell could a song with a title like that sound like?". I was completely unfamiliar with the Gabriel era. So I went to the record store and picked up "Genesis Live '73" and was COMPLETELY blown away. That started me down the rabbit hole. Next it was Zappa, Crimson...never really got into Yes.

[@TheProgCorner]

That Genesis Live album was a game changer for me too!!! Hopefully one day Yes will click for you!!! It happens like that sometimes!!!!

[@russellcampbell3274]

Great show, Scott. I'll stick my neck out and say that the first prog album was "The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter" by The Incredible String Band " from 1967. I'm biased because the band started in Edinburgh and I live in Scotland. If you don't know the album listen to "A Very Cellular Song" and see what you think.

[@TheProgCorner]

I know the Incredible String Band but I don’t think I know that song. I will listen to it and report back!!!

[@russellcampbell3274]

@@TheProgCorner Great, Scott. Love all your shows, especially your enthusiasm.

[@TheProgCorner]

Thank you!!! And why not be excited? We’re talking about Prog Rock!!!!!

[@julianirving9868]

Excllent list although I would swop the ELP album to be Pictures at an Exhibition, which was my first exposure to them

[@TheProgCorner]

I have absolutely no problem with that. I absolutely adore Pictures. It was my second ELP exposure (after Tarkus!!!)

[@donmcgee4657]

Not a bad selection but I'm surprised you left out Wishbone Ash. Yeah, it's hard to narrow it down to 12 LOL

[@TheProgCorner]

Great band!!!

[@TABL3SIX]

I would add "I Robot" by Alan Parsons Project. Very accessible and one of my favorites. And for something modern Dream Theater's Image and Words and Haken's The Mountain.

[@TheProgCorner]

Fantastic!!!

[@bryanwchambers9734]

How about the Beatles' st peppers lonely heart band. Perhaps one of the first precursors of Prog for sure. To me it was with this album that it proved to the world you could write complexed arrangements in rock music.

[@TheProgCorner]

Absolutely!!! I’m planning on doing an episode about the Origins Of Prog and Sgt Pepper’s will be front and center…

[@ericpiazzi3444]

Anything Steven Wilson does is a great gateway to Prog!

[@TheProgCorner]

Most certainly!!!