These days the label progressive is thrown around a lot. Most of the time I don't think it remotely applies due to the fact it usually isn't actually offering anything new. I've been a fan of the word progressive for quite some time as it tends to be one of the most important labels on sub-genres of music that appeal to me more than just about any other sub-genres on a regular basis.
Progressive Rock
and
Progressive Metal
In these contexts Progressive is pushing the frontiers of sound, mixing and matching, and trying new things. It is typically quite technical and takes very skilled musicians to pull it off. So when I see modern day "progressives" embracing and pushing failed ideas from the past to me that is what is properly known as regressive and doesn't fit the label at all. That is the last I'll say in terms of politics for this post.
I was driving the other day and revisiting some Progressive music I like. I thought I'd do a post of some song videos, and possibly some lyrics to share some pieces with people here. I know it will not be a thing that many people appreciate. If you appreciate musicianship at virtuoso levels then it is something you'll likely find intriguing at the very least. I may have share some of this long ago in past posts. I've lost track of those older posts.
I hope you enjoy...
Let us begin...
That is Haken - The Architect - Live at ProgPower USA XVII - in Full HD... Excellent song. Great band. Incredible musicians.
Here is the studio version and the lyrics if you prefer...
That one is Opeth - The Drapery Falls - Live ad Shepherd's Bush Empire, London
And here is the studio version followed by lyrics.