Progressive metal, a genre known for its complex compositions, technical prowess, and diverse influences, continues to thrive with well-known bands such as Dream Theater, Tool, and Opeth leading the way. However, there are numerous underrated gems within the genre that deserve attention. Here’s a list of 10 progressive metal bands that might have slipped under your radar but are definitely worth exploring in 2024.
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Ayreon
Led by Dutch mastermind Arjen Anthony Lucassen, Ayreon stands out as an exceptional sci-fi conceptual project. Lucassen brings together a cast of prog rock/metal royalty for each album, creating self-contained yet interconnected narratives. With contributors like Anneke van Giersbergen, James Labrie, and Devin Townsend, Ayreon’s discography is a treasure trove. Albums like “The Human Equation,” “Into the Electric Castle,” and “The Theory of Everything” showcase their incredible performances and storytelling.
Diablo Swing Orchestra
Hailing from Sweden, Diablo Swing Orchestra combines aggressive avant-garde metal, swing, and symphonic metal to create a unique and entertaining musical blend. Described as the more welcoming siblings of avant-garde acts like Sleepytime Gorilla Museum, their discography, particularly the magnum opus “Pandora’s Piñata,” is a delightful journey through varied and catchy compositions.
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Pain of Salvation
Sweden’s Pain of Salvation, led by the remarkable Daniel Gildenlöw, stands out with an incredible vocal range and adventurous arrangements. Their thematic exploration covers topics from environmentalism to the meaning of existence. With albums like “One Hour by the Concrete Lake,” “The Perfect Element, Part I,” and “In the Passing Light of Day,” Pain of Salvation offers a unique blend of mesmerizing melodies and thought-provoking lyrics.
Parius
For fans of prog metal theatricality akin to Between the Buried and Me and Devin Townsend, Philadelphia’s Parius is a hidden gem. Their 2022 release, “The Signal Heard Throughout Space,” seamlessly combines cohesive songwriting with the eccentricities of bands like Mr. Bungle and The Mars Volta. Parius’s music is ambitious, quirky, and thoroughly captivating.
RedShift
English trio RedShift draws comparisons to prog metal giants like Dream Theater, Rush, and Symphony X, yet manages to create engaging and commendable compositions. “Laws of Entropy,” their latest collection, seamlessly melds traditional progressive metal with elements of jazz fusion, hard rock, and death metal, showcasing their versatility and musical prowess.
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Riverside
Polish quartet Riverside exemplifies that progressive music doesn’t have to prioritize flashy musicianship over quality songwriting. Their discography, including the “Reality Dream” trilogy, is characterized by captivating melodies and emotionally charged lyrics delivered by bassist Mariusz Duda’s powerful voice. Riverside’s music spans the spectrum of intensity, from serene self-reflection to explosive bursts of emotion.
Sky Architect
Hailing from the Netherlands, Sky Architect distinguishes itself with vocalist Tom Luchies’ characteristic timbre, excellent storytelling, and exploratory arrangements. Blending modern prog metal with influences from progressive rock, psychedelic rock, and jazz fusion, their four outstanding records showcase a diverse and cosmic musical landscape.
Sigh
Japan’s Sigh spices up the progressive metal scene by incorporating elements of extreme metal, black metal, avant-garde metal, and world music. With a discography dating back to 1993’s “Scorn Defeat,” their sound is unpredictable, ranging from relentless ferocity to melodic and welcoming. Their 2022 release, “Shiki,” is a good starting point to experience their madcap inventiveness.
The Anchoret
The youngest entry on this list, The Anchoret, is set to release their debut LP, “It All Began with Loneliness,” in June 2023. Drawing inspiration from bands like Haken and Rivers of Nihil, they create a singular and daring vision. With elements of hard rock savagery and a diverse instrumentation including keys, woodwinds, saxophone, and harmonies, The Anchoret promises a fresh and unified musical experience.
Tranzat
French ensemble Tranzat offers a unique blend reminiscent of Devin Townsend’s “Bad Devil” expanded into a series of albums. Touches of Evergrey, Faith No More, and early Porcupine Tree add to their imaginative and engrossing sound. With three highly imaginative albums, including the newcomer “Ouh La La,” Tranzat’s tongue-in-cheek nature and diverse influences make them a standout in the progressive metal scene.
In conclusion, these 10 prog metal bands offer a diverse range of sounds and experiences, showcasing the genre’s depth and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned prog enthusiast or a newcomer to the scene, exploring these underrated gems is a journey well worth taking in 2024.
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