Meet the Collector: Scott Lade from The Prog Corner Shares His Top 5 Prog Albums
Welcome to the second episode of Now Spinning Magazine’s Podcast series, Meet the Collector, where I, Phil Aston, dive into the world of music lovers and their most cherished collections. In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Scott Lade from The Prog Corner—a YouTube channel renowned for celebrating progressive rock in all its intricate glory.
Scott and I discussed his top five prog albums of all time. As expected, his picks sparked plenty of surprises and passionate debate. From classic prog epics to albums that defined the genre’s adventurous spirit, Scott’s list serves as a perfect starting point for seasoned fans and newcomers alike.
Scott Lade’s Top 5 Prog Albums of All Time
5. Emerson, Lake & Palmer – Brain Salad Surgery (1973)
Scott kicked off his list with this dark, dystopian masterpiece. A significant shift from the polished Trilogy, Brain Salad Surgery represents ELP at their most ambitious, featuring the legendary Karn Evil 9. It’s a quintessential prog album packed with over-the-top musicianship.
4. King Crimson – Larks’ Tongues in Aspic (1973)
Described by Scott as “King Crimson’s most dangerous album,” this was their first with John Wetton. With its staccato violin stabs and unpredictable arrangements, it’s a harrowing, thrilling ride through prog’s edgiest corners.
3. Jethro Tull – Thick as a Brick (1972)
The idea of a single 40-minute track hitting #1 in the U.S. might seem impossible today, but that’s exactly what this album achieved. Scott praised its complexity and wit, especially its climactic final moments, which he called “the best 90 seconds of recorded music ever.”
2. Genesis – The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway (1974)
Scott’s second choice is Genesis’ ambitious double album that saw Peter Gabriel at his creative peak. With its surreal narrative and sprawling musical landscapes, The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway is a benchmark for concept albums.
1. Yes – Tales from Topographic Oceans (1973)
Scott’s favorite prog album of all time, Tales from Topographic Oceans, often divides opinion. Spanning four sides of vinyl with one track per side, it’s an uncompromising artistic statement that Scott described as “aural perfection.” He considers it Yes’ most daring and rewarding work.
Scott’s choices highlight the brilliance and variety of 1970s progressive rock. While some selections, like The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway and Thick as a Brick, are widely celebrated, his top pick, Tales from Topographic Oceans, challenges listeners with its complexity and length.
As someone who initially struggled with Tales, I now see it as a monumental piece of work. It’s the kind of album that demands—and rewards—undivided attention. If you haven’t listened to it in a while (or ever), this might be the perfect time to dive in.
Let’s Hear from You!
Have you listened to Scott’s top five albums?
Which prog albums would make your list?
What’s your take on Tales from Topographic Oceans?
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
