Masterpieces of progressive rock. Recommended popular songs.

TarkusEmerson Lake&Palmer

Emerson, Lake & Palmer – Tarkus (Official Audio)

A single track woven with a grand narrative.

Celebrated as a milestone of progressive rock, this piece unfolds a suite of over 20 minutes that depicts the journey of self-discovery and transformation of the fictional creature “Tarkus.” Keith Emerson’s masterful keyboards draw listeners into a fantastical musical world, while Greg Lake’s vocals and Carl Palmer’s rhythms further deepen the piece’s impact.

Released in June 1971, it has captivated many fans as the centerpiece of the album Tarkus.

It’s recommended not only for those interested in progressive rock, but also for anyone seeking new possibilities in music.

Take your time with it and savor its profound depth.

The Musical BoxGenesis

Genesis – Nursery Cryme – The Musical Box

A Genesis masterpiece that draws listeners in with meticulous song structure and imaginative development.

Its sensual narrative, carried by beautiful piano and acoustic guitar, is equally captivating and showcases the band’s brilliance at their peak.

Included on the November 1971 album “Nursery Cryme,” it is highly regarded as a milestone of progressive rock.

In live performances, Peter Gabriel acted out the story in distinctive costumes, mesmerizing audiences through a fusion of music and visuals.

The lyrics, centered on growing pains and the loss of innocence, resonate deeply with many listeners.

A highly recommended track for anyone seeking a fresh musical experience.

Jane SeymourRick Wakeman

Rick Wakeman – Jane Seymour – The Six Wives of Henry VIII – (1973) HQ

This piece by Rick Wakeman, known as a masterpiece of progressive rock, appears on the album The Six Wives of Henry VIII, released in January 1973—an ambitious work themed around Henry VIII’s wives.

Its breathtaking performance, featuring church pipe organ and synthesizers to full effect, shakes the listener to the core.

Wakeman drew inspiration from a biography he read while touring with Yes, expressing each wife’s characteristics through music.

It’s a must-listen not only for progressive rock fans but also for lovers of classical music.

Tom SawyerRush

Rush – Tom Sawyer

A band known to everyone in the progressive rock world.

It’s on their 1981 release, Moving Pictures.

The song is relatively compact, yet features technical drumming, a unique palette of sounds, and an unbroken flow right through to the final keyboard part.

Incidentally, the album itself is a classic that also contains several other great tracks.

All Along The WatchtowerAffinity

Affinity – All Along The Watchtower.wmv

From the band’s sole release in 1970.

The original song is by Bob Dylan.

When it comes to keyboards and female vocals, Renaissance might come to mind as a point of comparison.

This track is no less impressive—nearly 12 minutes long—with strongly improvisational organ phrasing and a band ensemble that fully understands dynamics, making it an exceptionally compelling listen.

FreefallCamel

Camel – Freefall

From the UK, the first track on their second album released in 1974.

The storm of tight, full-band hits at the outset leaves a vivid impression.

The guitar intertwining with the keyboards, the sectional shifts, and the striking contrasts between quiet and loud make it a masterpiece.

The pop-leaning vocals against the ensemble are also intriguing.

In the Land of Grey and PinkCaravan

In The Land Of Grey & Pink

An enchanting masterpiece that invites you into a world of grey and pink.

Featured on Caravan’s April 1971 album In the Land of Grey and Pink, this song deftly contrasts everyday monotony with a realm of imagination.

Infused with elements of jazz and folk, its sound leads listeners into a dreamlike state.

Known as the album’s title track, it remains a landmark in the history of progressive rock.

It has received high acclaim, including ranking 34th on Rolling Stone’s list of the greatest prog rock albums of all time.

Highly recommended for anyone looking to spark their imagination.