Expanded encapsulation of progressive metal heavyweights’ career.

The great and good of progressive music give us a glimpse into their prog worlds. As told to Grant Moon. Outside of music

Featuring the return of drummer Mike Portnoy, the 71-minute epic explores belonging, faith and renewal.

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.

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Steven Wilson returned to his progressive rock roots in 2025 with an epic two-track concept album and a wow-factor tour. Somehow, he even managed to find the time to remix Pink Floyd and a whole host of other rock and pop icons, too.