UK launches prog-rock chart, and Tame Impala tops it

The UK launched a new prog-rock album chart – and Tame Impala’s Currents topped the first one last night, beating out Muse’s Drones and Roger Waters’ Amused To Death.

The monthly-only Official Progressive Albums Chart is a joint venture by the Official Charts Company (OCC), which will collate the data from physical and digital sales and audio streaming services, and Prog magazine which will determine which acts are eligible.

The first chart is a mix of acts who pioneered the style in the early ‘70s and today’s exponents. Listed from fourth spot were Joe Satriani’s Shockwave Supernova, Public Service Broadcasting’s The Race For Space, Faith No More’s Sol Invictus, Symphony X’s Underworld, Pink Floyd’s The Endless River, Tim Bowness’ Stupid Things That Mean The World and Nightwish’s Endless Forms Most Beautiful.

The Top 30 prog chart – which comes on the heels of the introduction of the vinyl chart in April – will be published online by the Official Chart Company and in print by Prog.

“You look at some of the bestselling and acclaimed artists of the modern era like Muse, Radiohead, Mogwai, Tame Impala – what they do is incredible,” said Prog editor Jerry Ewing. “They are challenging themselves, their audience and inspiring a new generation, and the official progressive albums chart is the platform in which this will be recognised.

“We’re delighted to be working with the Official Charts Company and that the voice of the UK’s best-selling music have given prog the platform it so deserves."

Martin Talbot, the OCC’S Chief Executive, added: “We are delighted to be working with the progressive music experts at Prog magazine to create this exciting new chart – and look forward to giving the most inventive artists working today a new showcase of their own, every month.”

To celebrate the launch of the monthly chart, the OCC also compiled a list of the best-selling prog artists of the millennium. Muse topped the list after shifting 4.4 million albums since January 2000.

The Official Top 30 Progressive Artists of the 21st Century