Progression 1992–2018

Progression was launched by journalist John Collinge in 1992, during the so-called “third wave” of progressive rock. Inspired by Jason Rubin’s prog rock newsletter On reflection, Collinge put out the first 14 issues of Progression in a newsletter format before shifting to a full color magazine in 1995. Published in the U.S.A., Progression nevertheless took a geographically and stylistically broad approach to progressive music. Alongside features on famed groups like Yes, Jethro Tull, and Genesis, it includes columns on lesser-known artists such as Dutch symphonic metal band Delain, Indonesian jazz guitarist Tohpati, and Italian progressive metal band Kingcrow. Extensive album review sections are a staple of Progression, with some spanning nearly a hundred pages. Reflecting the importance of live performances for progressive music audiences, Progression also routinely featured festival reports—for example on Rites of Spring, NEARfest, Baja Prog, and ProgFest—and concert film reviews. Over its 26-year run, Progression’s extensive criticism, international coverage, and attention to established and emerging artists established it as a significant chronicle of progressive music culture.