One thing I notice more these days is how the “prog” label is used very loosely. I’m not a huge fan of labels but they do serve a purpose for communication and discussion of bands we like or might like. In the early 80s through early 90s, many of today’s bands called “prog” would have been referred to as prog metal, or just metal with prog influences. Fates Warning, Watchtower, Cynic, Dream Theater, Etc. were rarely called “prog” bands by anyone I knew or met at shows or record shops. The classic prog influences were always noted but the people listening to Gentle Giant, PFM, Magma, Greenslade, etc were not the same people listening to prog metal bands. Just an observation from a longtime prog rock fan and occasional metal fan. Not saying it’s good or bad.
