Renowned modern progressive rock and metal icon Steven Wilson (known for his work with Porcupine Tree and Opeth) is actively promoting his recently unveiled eighth studio album, The Overview. In an engaging conversation with the online music magazine and YouTube channel Innerviews, Wilson shared his insights on what he believes to be the singular defining characteristic of progressive rock artists.

Insights from Steven Wilson on Progressive Rock

In an enlightening interview posted on YouTube on March 1, host Anil Prasad inquired about Wilson’s decision to revisit the progressive rock genre with The Overview, especially after exploring art rock and electronica in his previous albums. Notably, this latest work features two extensive tracks, each approximately 20 minutes long, titled “Objects Outlive Us” and “The Overview.”

Wilson elaborated, stating, “I believe the return to progressive rock is fundamentally tied to the concept of long-form music.” He further expressed:

“For me, the essence of what defines ‘progressive rock’ comes down to one central theme. I’m referencing the entire spectrum of the genre, from Pink Floyd and Frank Zappa to Rush, Mogwai, and Radiohead. The only commonality across this diverse range is a deliberate intention to diverge from the conventional pop music structure. It embodies the notion of taking the listener on an immersive journey, often requiring an extended format.”

“While not all bands adhere to this, many naturally gravitate towards crafting pieces that span 10, 15, or even 20 minutes, which is precisely the direction this record takes. I firmly believe this is one of the defining traits, if not the paramount trait, of what I consider to be ‘progressive rock.’”

Furthermore, Wilson affirmed Prasad’s earlier observation about the incorporation of various genres in The Overview: “Moreover, as you’ve pointed out, all my characteristic elements are present here.”

He elaborated:

“This record includes electronic music, and it features a piece of pure ambient music that concludes the album, titled ‘Permanence.’ There are heavy metal riffs intermixed with sections that display strong pop sensibilities. Additionally, moments of jazz influences emerge throughout. Yet, I believe the overarching structure and the sense of a journey are quintessentially aligned with the traditions of progressive rock.

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In line with his perspective, Wilson has previously composed some of the most celebrated “epic” works in contemporary progressive rock, including Porcupine Tree’s “Anesthetize” from the 2007 album Fear of a Blank Planet and “Raider II” from his 2011 solo effort, Grace for Drowning. Additionally, as previously highlighted by Loudwire, significant figures in the genre such as Genesis, Jethro Tull, Symphony X, Haken, Devin Townsend, and Yes have also produced similarly lengthy and intricate compositions.

Do you align with Wilson’s perspective on the most universal aspect of prog rock? We invite you to share your thoughts!

For more insights, you can watch the complete interview below.

Discover More About The Overview and Its Concept

Following the release of 2023’s The Harmony Codex, The Overview debuted on March 14, 2025, featuring collaborations from Wilson’s regular musical partners, including guitarist and vocalist Randy McStine, flutist and saxophonist Theo Travis, and keyboardist Adam Holzman. Wilson describes the album’s concept as one that takes the listener on a Kubrickian odyssey into the vast darkness of outer space, revealing humanity’s true nature as diminutive and inconsequential against the backdrop of cosmic vastness spanning billions of years.

Thus far, The Overview has garnered exceptionally favorable reviews from prestigious publications such as MOJO magazine, Classic Rock magazine, and The Prog Report. You can purchase your copy here.

Steven Wilson Explores The Overview and the Essence of Prog Rock (March 1, 2025)