The one song that defines prog

The one song for me that would sum up prog really well  is `Heart Of The Sunrise.' This is one track that is alternately gorgeous and frenetic. Yet within the frenzied parts, the musicianship is quite controlled.The soft passages of `Love comes to you' are anice contrast to the blazing guitar riff by Mr. Howe. And Bruford`s drums are controlled ,yet dynamic. As good as Alan White is,he has never been able to better Bruford`s playing on this track, especially with all the paradiddles Bruford undergoes. Squire`s bas splaying is exemplary , Wakeamn`s mellotron is ethereal and atmospheric, and this is one of Jon Anderson`s best vocal performaces. He`s very low key on the first few verses, and on the last verse,his vocal performance simply soars like clouds above the heavens.. Wonderful track. If someone were to ask me what prog is about, I wouldn`t say a word and point that person in the direction of listening to this..

If I HAD TO pick one, it would be

KNOTS

by Gentle Giant

Why not going back to the source and play "In The Court of The Crimson King" side one?

1) 21st Century Schizoid Man

Starts with weird whispered noise, then suddenly explodes in a mix of jazz, rock and pionnering electronic effects to finish in a delirium of sounds. Rythm changes are frequent and unexpected.

2) I talked to the Wind

From furor to accoustic gentleness, from distorted guitars and saxes to aerial flute and typical "prog" countertime drumming, merging into

3) Epitaph

Prototypical symphonico-mellotronic epic

That's all prog, for sure

Phil wrote: Can't give one song that defines prog (although if pushed CTTE might be the nearest thing...). Can maybe give a song that is a good example of prog.  On that basis I'd suggest something like: Heart of the Sunrise, Firth of Fifth, or maybe Starless. Assuming the audience is not familiar with prog the suggestion of "Gates of Delirium" is a bit risky.....

Gates of Delerium is ONLY for those well seasoned in prog!!!!!

ivan_2068 wrote: Must be classical influenced Must have drastic changes Must have virtuoso performances Must be Original Better if an epic.

That's Igor Stravinsky's Rite of Spring or Firebird then.

Oh, btw, does it have to be "rock"..?

theBox wrote: Don't forget that Gates Of Delerium easily defines prog!!!! From genesis I would say can-utility and the coastliners (everything that makes genesis a great band, in a nutshell)

I agree Gates is it for me, from sound effects, acoustic parts, electric/synth parts, fast slow.

I suppose awaken is another one like this.

Karn Evil 9 is my other choice