Some discussions in a few recent got me thinking about how we have all our 60s/70s big 5/6/7/8, we have our big 80s neo-prog pioneers (Marillion, IQ, etc.), and we have our big 3rd wavers from the early/mid 90s (PTree, SB, FK, even Radiohead, GYBE! and Tool if you're so inclined).
But what about these days? Do we have a "Big 5" from the last 10 years? It seems as the time goes on, finding these flagship or identifying bands for the current generation is fleeting. I used to feel I could put The Mars Volta in that category, but I'm not sure they had the staying power or future influence.
So for lack of a better method, here is my criteria...
1. The artist's/group's first or breakthrough album has to have been released not earlier than 2003.
2. It should not be a "prog supergroup" such as Transatlantic whose success is boosted by past work.
3. They have a clear influence on the current scene.
4. They have album/tour sales that can safely put them in a higher percentile.
5. That the artist is not "traditionally prog" should not be counted against them.
Anyway, I figure there are no right or wrong answers here, but it will be interesting to see what names will pop up (I have a few guesses).
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