[mandan]

Once upon a time, 5 bands set out (perhaps unknowingly) to define the sub-genre we call progressive rock. Were it not for their work, prog-rock definitely wouldn't be what is today, and would likely have not developed quite as well.

King Crimson: Bob Fripp's gang, often credited with inventing the sub-genre with their debut.

Genesis: Developed at a more gradual pace than KC, but had an impressive run in the 70's which decisively shaped the music.

Yes: Reached their creative peak in the early 70's, releasing essential after essential. Could feel rather bombastic to some, but gifted musicians all the same (even if Anderson's vocals can be annoying at times).

Pink Floyd: Pink Floyd had an earlier debut than any of the other giants here. One might say that "the history of Pink Floyd is the history of prog"since thay saw every mayor stage in the genre's development, at least from it's psychedelic beginnings to it's poppier tendencies in the 80's. One might even add that prog pretty much died as we know it at the time of their break-up (yes, I know about prog-metal, but traditional prog was pretty much extinct at this point).

Jethro Tull: The folksier of the Big 5. Jethro Tull created ambitious concepts in the 70's, which set a standard for those who came later.

So, which is your fave?