Question: Is Neo-Classical 'Prog'?

This has just struck my mind. Do prog fans consider neo-classical as prog?
I can't decide easily on that issue, but some bands and artists I consider neo-classical
(Nightwish, Theodore Ziras) are in the Archives, while other, more popular and highly
regarded are not (Malmsteen).

No, I am not proposing anyone for addition or rejection...

So what is your opinion on the subject?

EDIT: What is your general perception of neo-classical relating to prog?


Edited by aapatsos - December 14 2007 at 22:29

^ you had me confused for a minute because I was under the impression that darkwave groups like Dead Can Dance were neo-classical and Stravinsky was Neoclassical, whereas I concider Nightwish to be Symphonic Metal.... So I wiki'd Malmsteen and discover he is Neo-classical Metal.

darqdean wrote: ^ you had me confused for a minute because I was under the impression that darkwave groups like Dead Can Dance were neo-classical and Stravinsky was Neoclassical, whereas I concider Nightwish to be Symphonic Metal.... So I wiki'd Malmsteen and discover he is Neo-classical Metal.   So, back to your question. I think that all metal sub-genres have the potential to be Progressive Metal, but not all the bands in those sub-genres. For example, Nightwish have made the transition from Symphonic Metal to Progressive Metal, but Edenbridge, have not. Therefore each band must be judged on their own merits and accomplishments regardless of the metal sub-genre they are allied to.

You have a clear point on that Dean, I apologise for your initial confusion...Maybe I have not made my thoughts clear.

Another artist that could be well regarded as neo-classical is Uli Jon Roth. His solo works are pretty impressive and his live performances even more... I am also a bit confused about how prog or not such an artist would be, but how much progressive do you see in such works?

Is neo-classical really progressive or 'regressive' ?


Edited by aapatsos - December 14 2007 at 22:33

^^ Plenty of unprogressive bands on here. Malmsteen mixes classical and rock, that's what alot of prog bands do. Not saying that he should be on here, but, I dunno, Symphony X and Kamelot are...

Edited by King Crimson776 - December 15 2007 at 01:29

micky wrote: never understood why it isn't.. but not really a fan.. so never pushed for answers I, and others, have mentioned Malmsteen several times...I think he would get in without much problem.. well but for two... one to 'champion' him so to speak... and the biggest... where in the world to put him.

Heavy Prog? I think David would be very much in favour of his inclusion. As to myself, I am not an expert (haven't heard anything from him for years), so I would defer to the 'real' ones.

I agree, but I didn't want to force my opinion on anyone. ;-)