[2026] Masterpieces of instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks.
The genre of music without vocals—so-called “instrumentals,” also known in Japan by the abbreviation “inst”—covers a wide range of pieces, from film soundtracks and classical music to 15-second commercial jingles.
In this article, we’ve curated a broad selection of recommended instrumental masterpieces, from world-famous soundtrack tunes to fiery guitar instrumentals and soothing lounge music.
We hope it sparks a new realization—“Songs without lyrics might actually be great!”
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[2026] Masterpieces of Instrumentals: Recommended Instrumental Tracks (161–170)
Electric WormBeastie Boys
Beastie Boys, who achieved great success from their debut as white rappers, had an enormous impact on the scene through their wide-ranging activities—from innovative music that never stayed in one style to launching a trend-setting label and magazine, and even engaging in social causes.
They originally came from a hardcore band, and a major strength is that all three members can play instruments.
In 2007, they shocked listeners by releasing the instrumental album The Mix-Up, recorded with vintage instruments.
Electric Worm, included on The Mix-Up, delivers a cool, subtly stylish sound: a track swirling with a dark, funky groove that even hints at dub, topped off by Money Mark—practically a fourth member—on Hammond organ.
It’s fantastic!
land of make believeChuck Mangione
A famous piece by Chuck Mangione that abundantly showcases the flugelhorn’s tone.
Its light, brisk tempo sets it apart from his other works and gives it a distinctly fusion feel.
The song is widely known and has been covered by various artists at many concerts.
Nut RockerEmerson Lake&Palmer
A rock-arranged track based on Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker.
It’s included as an encore at the end of the live album Pictures at an Exhibition.
The image of ELP’s “face,” Keith Emerson, striking the keyboards onstage is unforgettable.
Tchaikovsky’s works originally have melodies that connect to popular music and are easy to listen to, so perhaps it appealed even to people who say, “Progressive rock isn’t really my thing.” Still, their sheer arranging prowess is nothing short of astonishing.
Keith Emerson’s genius can also be seen in pieces from his pre-ELP days with The Nice, such as America (from West Side Story).
CascadePlini
This is a Plini track that embodies both intensity and tranquility at the same time.
It opens with a grand clean-tone intro, then launches into technical distorted-guitar riffs, keeping the listener engaged while weaving in catchy melodies at key moments.
It’s a great pick for newcomers to prog as well.
PepitoWerner Müller und sein Orchester
“Pepito.” It’s a bright Latin number with the name Pepito/Pepita sung over and over.
The Latin rhythm and melody are a perfect match, making it a really fun song.
It’s also recommended for couples to listen to.
It’ll lift your spirits and set the mood for a great time.
Be sure to give it a listen.
Cissy StrutThe Meters
The Meters are an instrumental R&B band that produced a sound similar to Booker T.
Their music was called ‘New Orleans funk.’ ‘Cissy Strut’ is a special number for New Orleans funk, serving as the first track on their debut album.
falkorCovet
Tapping is a special technique for stringed instruments like guitar and bass, where the right hand—normally used with a pick—takes on the left hand’s role of fretting the strings.
Covet is the band led by the rising star guitarist Yvette Young, who wields this technique with effortless control.
Among their songs, Falkor stands out as a highly recommended track for instrumental beginners: instead of flaunting technique, it focuses on an accessible melodic line.
It’s a gentle sound that’s also great for those who find guitar instrumentals too intense.
