[2026] A Collection of Masterpieces of Japanese Progressive/Prog Rock
Progressive rock, which saw a major surge in popularity in Europe and the United States in the 1970s, is a rock genre that pursues experimental and ambitious musicality in terms of song structure and performance technique.
In Japan as well, it has influenced many musicians since the ’70s and has developed in its own unique way.
In recent years, a new generation of bands has continued to emerge, creating fresh appeal through contemporary interpretations.
This article will guide you through the world of Japanese progressive rock—from classic masterpieces to the latest buzzworthy releases—for those who want to explore the allure of prog.
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[2026] A Collection of Masterpieces of Japanese Progressive/Progressive Rock (11–20)
WE ARE HEREFLOWER TRAVELLIN’ BAND
It’s a Japanese progressive rock band that debuted in 1970 and is popular overseas.
They also drew attention because Yuya Uchida produced them.
In the music video for this song, one member is holding an instrument with so many strings that it’s hard to tell if it’s a bass or a guitar (probably a bass), which really showcases the band’s high level of musicianship.
A city not on the mapMarmalade butcher
Since 2017, they’ve been an unusually large band, performing with eight members.
In this song, the balance is cool: behind the female vocalist’s clear, whispery voice, the band plays intricate, challenging phrases.
Suite “Ran”Bikyōran
Bi Kyo Ran, the band nicknamed the “Japanese King Crimson” in Japan’s progressive rock scene.
Their true essence is captured in the epic track included on the 1983 classic Parallax.
It’s an expansive suite that takes up the entire B-side of the album, conveying the band’s ambitious mindset at the time—fascinating to hear.
The sound woven by heavy guitars and lyrical violin showcases a striking contrast between stillness and motion, and its Oriental overtones create a unique sense of tension.
This piece offers an experience like being swept into a vortex where madness and silence intersect.
When you want to immerse yourself in a long, meticulously constructed composition, be sure to give it a listen!
SaethiEVRAAK
EVRAAK is a progressive rock band pursuing a distinctive sound where saxophones intertwine with a heavy yet intricate ensemble.
This track opens their album Evraak I, released in November 2021.
Sung entirely in their original language, it conjures a dark, theatrical atmosphere as if you’ve wandered into a shamanic ritual.
Marina Seo’s expressive vocals are breathtaking—switching in an instant from growls to soprano, as though she’s embodying a girl possessed.
Their overwhelming performance at a festival in May 2024 also drew significant attention.
It’s a recommended piece not only for fans of classic prog like King Crimson, but for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in a gothic, theatrical world.
Highway as a Period DramaTipographica
It’s an impressive track that uses polyrhythms, with synths and a horn section coming in with irregular time signatures over the beat laid down by the drums.
As the title includes the word “samurai,” the music carries a touch of Japanese flavor reminiscent of the early Meiji era, and the addition of the horn section creates a striking contrast that makes the song really cool.
Demon Girl Akinzoku ebisu
Metal Ebis, radiating a one-of-a-kind world where the scent of Showa-era kayōkyoku and heavy metal fuse together! Featured on their sci-fi concept album “Kyo-mu Kairō,” released in December 2022, this track embodies the “Human Disassembly Metal” they champion.
Its faintly wistful melody feels like the cry of a girl harboring a dangerous fragility, while beneath it swirls a progressive development, with riffs shifting one after another in the interlude, throwing the listener off balance.
The free-form arrangement—praised by His Excellency Damian Hamada, founder of Seikima-II—is superb.
It has also been broadcast on FM NACK5.
Lovers of kayōkyoku and metal alike are sure to be captivated by this mysterious charm!
[2026] A Collection of Masterpieces of Japanese Progressive/Progressive Rock (21–30)
Shield For Your Eyes…MELT-BANANA
This is a Japanese prog band that enjoys immense support in the US and Europe.
Not only is their playing cool, but the songs are especially striking because the vocalist, Yako, delivers shouts and stage performances you’d never expect from her beautiful appearance.