The best Progressive Metal albums
of the 2010s.
Where to start with 2010–2019 progressive metal — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 2010s — progressive metal
Top picks from 2010–2019, ranked by where we would start.
Coheed and Cambria
The Afterman: Ascension
A sprawling narrative unfolds through intricate melodies and dynamic shifts, blending progressive rock with alternative influences.
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Coheed and Cambria
Vaxis – Act I: The Unheavenly Creatures
A sprawling narrative woven through dynamic shifts, blending progressive rock with emotionally charged storytelling and intricate instrumentation.
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Dream Theater
A Dramatic Turn of Events
A sweeping tapestry of intricate melodies and dynamic rhythms, blending technical prowess with emotive storytelling.
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Dream Theater
The Astonishing
An ambitious rock opera blending intricate melodies with theatrical storytelling across a sprawling two-disc narrative.
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Dir En Grey
The Unraveling (EP)
A chaotic blend of haunting melodies and aggressive instrumentation that embodies the emotional turmoil of the modern human experience.
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Dir En Grey
Arche
Explosive rhythms and haunting melodies converge, revealing a complex emotional landscape steeped in darkness and introspection.
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Gojira
Magma
Magma blends technical precision with atmospheric depth, creating a haunting landscape of groove-laden metal that resonates with emotional power.
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Gojira
The Flesh Alive
A relentless blend of intricate rhythms and guttural vocals that propel the listener through existential and environmental themes.
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Loudness
Eve to Dawn
A vibrant blend of heavy riffs and melodic progressions that showcases the band's signature sound and lyrical depth.
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Loudness
King of Pain
A relentless heavy metal onslaught that combines dramatic melodies with intense, aggressive instrumentation.
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Waltari
You Are Waltari
Eclectic soundscapes blend alternative metal with avant-garde elements, showcasing a playful yet introspective sonic journey.
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Avenged Sevenfold
The Stage
A sprawling, ambitious metal journey that blends intricate arrangements with thought-provoking themes and dynamic shifts in intensity.
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Avenged Sevenfold
Black Reign
A furious blend of metalcore aggression and melodic intricacy, embodying a dark narrative aesthetic.
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Tool
Fear Inoculum
A sprawling, intricate journey through heavy rhythms and ethereal melodies that challenges the listener’s perception of time.
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Joe Satriani
Black Swans and Wormhole Wizards
A vibrant mix of intricate guitar work and ethereal melodies, blending rock, jazz fusion, and progressive textures seamlessly.
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Joe Satriani
Unstoppable Momentum
A vibrant blend of instrumental rock and blues, showcasing virtuosic guitar work over dynamic rhythms.
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Buckethead
Reunion
An eclectic blend of avant-garde jazz and dark ambient soundscapes, exploring emotional depth through intricate guitar work.
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Buckethead
Feathers
A meditative blend of ambient textures and intricate guitar work, evoking a serene yet surreal soundscape.
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Riverside
Love, Fear and the Time Machine
A contemplative blend of progressive rock textures and introspective lyrics, exploring themes of existence and emotional depth.
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Riverside
Wasteland
A haunting blend of progressive metal and rock that explores themes of loss and survival through atmospheric soundscapes.
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Devin Townsend
Empath
Empath showcases a wide spectrum of sounds, from intense metal riffs to ethereal soundscapes, reflecting Townsend's unique approach to music. It's designed to pull listeners in with its varied dynamics, making it accessible for newcomers while still offering depth for those who seek it.
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Steven Wilson
The Raven That Refused to Sing (And Other Stories)
Haunting melodies intertwine with intricate arrangements, creating an immersive landscape of melancholy and reflection.
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Steven Wilson
Hand. Cannot. Erase.
Hand. Cannot. Erase. presents a fully realized concept that weaves together emotional themes and sonic exploration. This album encapsulates the essence of Wilson’s ability to craft immersive experiences, for those just starting out.
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Trivium
In Waves
A relentless blend of melodic hooks and ferocious riffs, layered with atmospheric interludes and introspective lyrics.
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