Definition

Noun: - A subgenre of rock music that emerged in the late 1960s and flourished in the 1970s, characterized by its ambition to elevate rock music beyond standard pop and rock formulas. It is associated with attempts to combine rock with diverse influences such as jazz, classical, and folk music. The compositions are often complex, featuring extended song structures, intricate instrumental passages, and conceptual lyrics, and are primarily intended for focused listening rather than dancing.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Bands like Pink Floyd and Yes are considered pioneers of progressive rock.
  • The album is a masterpiece of progressive rock, featuring a 20-minute suite with multiple movements.
  • He has a large collection of classic progressive rock from the 1970s.

Advanced Usage

• "Prog rock": A common abbreviation for "progressive rock."
  • The festival will feature several bands from the prog rock scene.

Variants and Related Words

• Prog (n., informal): A shortened, colloquial term for progressive rock.
  • He's a big fan of 70s prog.
• Art rock (n.): A closely related genre that overlaps with progressive rock, often emphasizing artistic ambition and experimentation over traditional rock structures.

Synonyms

• Art rock: (While overlapping, art rock can sometimes place more emphasis on avant-garde and artistic concepts.)
• Symphonic rock: (Highlights the genre's frequent use of orchestral and classical music elements.)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Concept album: While not exclusive to progressive rock, this term is strongly associated with the genre. It refers to an album where all songs contribute to a single overarching theme or story.
  • 'The Wall' by Pink Floyd is one of the most famous concept albums in progressive rock.

Noun

1. a style of rock music that emerged in the 1970s; associated with attempts to combine rock with jazz and other forms; intended for listening and not dancing