The best Progressive Rock albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 progressive rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — progressive rock
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
The Who
Who's Next
A powerful fusion of rock anthems and introspective ballads, layered with innovative production and Pete Townshend's visionary songwriting.
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The Who
Quadrophenia
A sweeping rock opera that intertwines raw emotion with intricate instrumentation and vivid storytelling.
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Queen
Queen
A theatrical blend of hard rock and glam aesthetics, bursting with dynamic melodies and flamboyant vocal performances.
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Queen
A Night at the Opera
A flamboyant fusion of rock operatics and intricate harmonies that defy genre boundaries and showcase theatricality.
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Pink Floyd
Atom Heart Mother
An expansive exploration of sound, blending orchestral arrangements with experimental rock and psychedelic textures.
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Pink Floyd
Obscured by Clouds
A dreamlike blend of atmospheric soundscapes and introspective lyrics that encapsulate the essence of early 70s progressive rock.
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Franco Battiato
Pollution
A fusion of avant-garde experimentation and melodic pop that explores existential themes through eclectic soundscapes.
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Franco Battiato
Clic
A surreal blend of avant-garde textures and melodic pop that defies genre boundaries while exploring philosophical themes.
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Mike Oldfield
Boxed
A sprawling fusion of progressive rock and ambient soundscapes that transports listeners through intricate musical narratives.
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Mike Oldfield
Ommadawn
An expansive journey blending folk melodies, progressive rock structures, and intricate instrumental layers into a cohesive sonic landscape.
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Dire Straits
Dire Straits
A blend of blues-infused rock with storytelling lyrics that evoke a sense of place and narrative depth.
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Dire Straits
Communiqué
A smooth blend of bluesy guitar riffs and reflective storytelling that captures the essence of late '70s rock.
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Deep Purple
Fireball
A fiery blend of hard rock and progressive elements, igniting with intense riffs and dynamic instrumental exchanges.
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Deep Purple
Stormbringer
A blend of hard rock and soul, infused with funk rhythms and contemplative lyrics that explore themes of love and loss.
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Frank Zappa
Weasels Ripped My Flesh
A chaotic blend of rock, jazz, and avant-garde sounds that challenges conventions and embraces improvisation.
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Frank Zappa
Chunga's Revenge
A wild blend of avant-garde rock and jazz inflected with Zappa's signature satirical wit and complex arrangements.
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Genesis
Nursery Cryme
Whimsical narratives intertwine with intricate melodies, creating a fantastical soundscape that defines early progressive rock.
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Genesis
Wind & Wuthering
A lush tapestry of progressive rock, blending intricate melodies with lyrical storytelling and atmospheric arrangements.
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Meat Loaf
Bat Out of Hell
Epic rock operas intertwine theatrical storytelling with raw emotional power and grandiose instrumentation.
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Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
A fusion of art rock and worldbeat that showcases Gabriel's eclectic vision and emotive storytelling.
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Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
A fusion of art rock and experimental sounds, blending introspective lyrics with eclectic instrumentation and atmospheric textures.
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Yes
The Yes Album
A dynamic blend of intricate melodies, soaring harmonies, and expansive arrangements that define the essence of progressive rock.
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Yes
Close to the Edge
Expansive soundscapes weave intricate melodies with dynamic shifts, creating a transcendent journey through time and consciousness.
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King Crimson
Lizard
An experimental blend of jazz, rock, and avant-garde elements that defies conventional song structures and embraces surrealism.
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