VA - Progression, A Progressive Rock Anthology [1993]

ROCK

VA - Progression, A Progressive Rock Anthology [1993]

The release of “Progression: A Progressive Rock Anthology” in 1993 coincided with a renewed interest in progressive rock. This compilation album, put together by PolyGram TV, serves as an excellent introduction to the genre. It features a thoughtfully curated selection of 20 tracks that showcase the diverse and innovative nature of progressive rock.

However, the “progressive” label is somewhat loosely applied here. The definition of prog rock is often debated, and including bands like Free, Deep Purple, and The Gun might raise some eyebrows. Most of the tracks are from the late '60s and early '70s, fitting the era but not necessarily the mainstream. This collection draws from the fringes and the more avant-garde side of rock music.

There are hints of the preceding psychedelic era, and some tracks feature early Moog synthesizers, expanding the sound palette beyond standard rock. You’ll also find unique elements like Curved Air’s lead violin and Jethro Tull’s flute. While the songs mostly adhere to standard verse/chorus structures, they incorporate prog elements.

Interestingly, apart from Jethro Tull, the compilation doesn’t include many of the obvious prog bands from that era. This could be seen as a strength, as it might appeal to non-prog fans who were put off by the genre’s reputation. Instead, the album offers well-chosen tracks from the same era that many might recognize from their chart success, potentially encouraging further exploration of progressive rock.

Overall, there’s much to enjoy in this collection, regardless of any specific label. For many, it will evoke fond memories of the past. (B)

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Track list

01 The Crazy World of Arthur Brown - Fire 2:59

02 Deep Purple - Strange Kind of Woman 3:44

03 Free - Little Bit of Love 2:33

04 Atomic Rooster - Devil's Answer 3:25

05 Edgar Winter - Frankenstein 4:47

06 Hawkwind - Silver Machine 4:24

07 Gun - Race With the Devil 3:34

08 The Rattles - The Witch 2:30

09 Golden Earring - Radar Love 5:07

10 Ten Years After - Love Like a Man 3:06

11 Blackfoot Sue - Standing in the Road 3:46

12 Argent - Hold Your Head Up 3:45

13 Curved Air - Backstreet Luv 3:37

14 Jethro Tull - Living in the Past 3:20

15 Family - In My Own Time 3:35

16 Medicine Head - Slip & Slide 3:32

17 Rare Bird - Sympathy 2:44

18 Manfred Mann's Earth Band - Joybringer 3:26

19 Renaissance - Northern Lights 3:32

20 East of Eden - Jig-A-Jig 3:36

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