10 Greatest Prog Rock Bands

For years, the general construct of the rock band has always been with guitar, bass, drums, and maybe keyboards if you feel so inclined. Other than the occasional weird instrument for the sake of experimenting, the entire rock world has been comfortable sticking to the traditional instrumental formula. Rock would have probably continued on without a care, but Electric Light Orchestra was the first band to bring the rock spirit into the classical realm.

That use of the word "orchestra" in the name is by no means a cheeky pun. Throughout the band's career, leader Jeff Lynne has employed various strings to get the lush soundscapes that he wants for his tunes. Initially inspired by the experimental weirdness of the Beatles' middle period, Lynne used the studio as his instrument, with albums like A New World Record and Out of the Blue sounding like modern-day concertos that just happen to feature guitars.

Not only has Lynne crafted his own unique lane for his music, but his knowledge in the producer's chair has helped revitalize the career of many rock luminaries, from Tom Petty's solo work to being drafted by the Beatles to mastermind their Anthology series. Electric Light Orchestra may not be anyone's first guess as the best prog band of all time, but once you get accustomed to their immense sound, you will find some of the most beautiful pieces in the rock canon.