Scandi retro-proggers find musical inspiration in unexpected places.

What an incredible 2025 it’s been in the world of prog. This year, we’ve taken a different approach to our Critics’ Choice and instead of printing our writers’ Top 20 lists, we’ve pooled them to create a definitive Top 50 with profile pieces on some of the key players. Did your favourite make the cut? We look forward to reading your thoughts on the results.

PRESS Gluecifer Same Drug New High STEAMHAMMER Bringing ...

Meet the 21st-century power trio who might just cause an out-of-nowhere explosion.

S wedish retro renegades with a lust for adventure.

A 12-year gap between albums would see most bands lose fans and momentum. But progmetallers Karnivool tell us they’re back to reclaim their crown – if they don’t die on stage first.