5 Best ‘90s Instrumental Prog Metal Albums (Ranked)
These days, there is no shortage of instrumental progressive metal acts. The subcategory is currently saturated with superb artists creating intricate, imaginative tracks that rely on technical prowess rather than vocal melodies. Modern titans like Liquid Tension Experiment, Animals as Leaders, Scale the Summit, Intervals, and Plini have turned this niche into a global phenomenon.
However, the landscape was vastly different in the 1990s. While the roots of prog metal were established in the late ’80s, the instrumental side of the genre was still in its infancy. Despite this, a handful of outstanding records emerged during that decade—albums that remain essential listening for any fan of technical, challenging music.
Specifically, the albums we are breaking down below represent the finest early examples of how inventive and alluring instrumental progressive metal can be. In curating this list, we have restricted ourselves to one album per band. While some of these records may feature minor vocal elements like spoken passages or background textures, they are, for all intents and purposes, instrumental works with zero focus on traditional singing.
Whether you are an expert in the style or a novice looking to explore its history, these five records are the definitive starting point for ’90s instrumental prog metal.
5. Michael Angelo Batio, No Boundaries (1995)
We told you to expect the unexpected! Although Michael Angelo Batio (Manowar, Nitro) is often remembered as a glam metal shredder, he possesses a deep, long-standing love for prog and neoclassical metal. His 1995 solo debut remains his most compelling effort in this space.
The album’s prelude, “Intro: This CD Is Dedicated to You,” features Batio delivering his signature high-speed shredding, almost as if he is signaling to longtime fans that he is about to take them somewhere new. While he retains his aggressive roots on tracks like “Rain Forest” and “The Finish Line,” much of the album explores complex rhythmic changes and symphonic tonal shifts. Batio concludes the record with “Outsideinside,” a multifaceted composition that serves as the ultimate realization of his progressive potential.
No Boundaries may not be as overtly influenced by ’70s prog rock giants as Dream Theater’s Images and Words, but it is a sophisticated, thoroughly enjoyable record that bridges the gap between technical shred and progressive composition.
Be sure to let us know if we missed any great records or if you disagree with our ranking!