Bands & artists like Soft Machine

If you like Soft Machine, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

Artists to try next

Can

Can

Their experimental approach to rhythm and texture aligns closely with Soft Machine's intricate grooves and layered soundscapes.

Krautrock art rock progressive rock
King Crimson

King Crimson

Guide

Known for their complex compositions and fusion of progressive rock with jazz elements, King Crimson shares a similar sonic depth.

art rock jazz rock progressive rock
Hatfield and the North

Hatfield and the North

Their playful yet sophisticated blend of jazz rock and Canterbury scene influences mirrors the intricate arrangements found in Soft Machine's work.

Canterbury scene progressive rock
Gentle Giant

Gentle Giant

Guide

With their focus on complex time signatures and rich harmonies, Gentle Giant offers a similar cerebral listening experience.

progressive rock
Nucleus

Nucleus

As a pioneering jazz-rock band, Nucleus combines intricate instrumentation and improvisation reminiscent of Soft Machine's style.

jazz rock music
The Muffins

The Muffins

Their blend of avant-garde rock with jazz influences creates a textural complexity akin to that of Soft Machine.

Canterbury scene progressive rock
Pavlov's Dog

Pavlov's Dog

Their unique mix of progressive rock with rich melodies and elaborate arrangements resonates with the sonic intricacies of Soft Machine.

progressive rock
Caravan

Caravan

Caravan's whimsical storytelling combined with progressive rock elements parallels the narrative depth found in Soft Machine's music.

progressive rock

Common questions

Who sounds like Soft Machine?

Artists similar to Soft Machine include Can, King Crimson, Hatfield and the North and Gentle Giant. Each shares elements of Soft Machine's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Soft Machine?

Soft Machine is primarily known for progressive rock, psychedelic rock and jazz rock. Texturally rich and rhythmically complex, Soft Machine's music unfolds through intricate grooves and layered instrumentation that create a tapestry of sound capable of both tension and release.

Where should I start if I like Soft Machine?

If you enjoy Soft Machine, start with Can — their album "Delay 1968" is a great entry point. Their experimental approach to rhythm and texture aligns closely with Soft Machine's intricate grooves and layered soundscapes.