Progressive metal

Progressive metal (shortened to prog, or prog metal when differentiating from progressive rock) is a heavy brand of progressive rock which is characterized by the use of complex compositional structures, odd time signatures, and intricate and virtuosic instrumental playing. The high level of musical proficiency is often combined with a lyrical counterpart in the form of epic textual concepts, resulting in lengthy songs and concept albums. As a result of these factors, progressive metal is rarely heard on mainstream radio and video programs.

Diversity

Progressive metal can be broken down into countless sub-genres corresponding to certain other styles of music that have influenced progressive metal groups. For example, two bands that are commonly identified as progressive metal, King's X and Opeth, are at opposite ends of the sonic spectrum to one another. King's X are greatly influenced by softer mainstream rock and grunge, whereas Opeth's growling vocals and heavy guitars often see them cited as death metal.

Related Topics:
King's X - Opeth - Grunge - Death metal

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Classical and symphonic music have also had a significant impact on sections of the progressive metal genre, with bands such as Symphony X and Spock's Beard fusing traditional progressive metal with a complexity and grandeur usually found in classical compositions. Similarly, bands such as Liquid Tension Experiment and Planet X have a jazz influence, with extended solo sections that often feature "trading solos". Furthermore, Liquid Tension Experiment exhibits an improvisational element that is rare in heavy metal, usually a very structured genre. Another important band, Cynic, fused progressive metal, death metal, and jazz/fusion in a very diverse and unique work known as Focus.

Related Topics:
Classical - Symphony X - Spock's Beard - Liquid Tension Experiment - Planet X - Jazz - Cynic - Focus

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If fringe progressive metal acts are to be included, Tool would be the most popular group in the genre. Tool exploded to prominence in the mid '90s with the release of their third album, Ænima, and have since gone on to become one of the most popular rock acts in the world. Their eclectic mix of heavy metal, rhythmic drumming, complex structures and deep lyrics has prompted many people to classify them as a progressive metal band although their music differs substantially from traditional progressive acts. However, Tool's next release, 2001's Lateralus solidified the band's standing in the progressive metal scene with its complex structure and highly conceptual nature, although some purists contend that Tool is more akin to industrial music rather than traditional progressive metal.

Related Topics:
Tool - '90s - Ænima - 2001 - Lateralus - Industrial

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In Japan, a fusion of video game music and progressive metal became popular in 2003 with the rise of The Black Mages, a band that produced remakes of famous Final Fantasy tunes. Although still new, this trend could increase in the future.

Related Topics:
Japan - The Black Mages - Final Fantasy

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