Netflix Announces Release of Groundbreaking Documentary on Progressive Rock Bands: “This is Realistic and Super Cool”

Progressive rock, a genre that exploded in the late 1960s and early 1970s, is making a triumphant return to the spotlight with a new documentary set to air on Netflix later this year. Titled “This is Realistic and Super Cool,” the highly anticipated documentary is set to explore the evolution, cultural impact, and legacy of one of music history’s most complex and influential genres. This documentary, which promises to offer a deep dive into the world of progressive rock, will highlight the visionary musicians, the iconic albums, and the incredible artistry that made this genre a cornerstone of music for generations.

For fans of the genre, the announcement of Netflix’s involvement in telling the story of progressive rock was met with excitement and a sense of validation for a music movement that has often remained on the fringes of mainstream recognition. The documentary aims to bring attention to the genre’s complexity, ambition, and its revolutionary approach to music, while also celebrating its enduring influence on artists today.

The Rise of Progressive Rock: A Revolutionary Sound

Progressive rock, often shortened to prog rock, emerged during the late 1960s and became a dominant force in the early 1970s. Its defining characteristics included intricate song structures, unconventional time signatures, elaborate instrumental sections, and thematic, sometimes philosophical lyrics. While the genre’s influence initially rose in the United Kingdom, it quickly spread across the world and gave birth to some of the most iconic bands in rock history.

At the heart of progressive rock were bands like Pink Floyd, Genesis, Yes, King Crimson, and Emerson, Lake & Palmer. These bands were not just musicians—they were pioneers, blending rock with classical music, jazz, and avant-garde experimentalism. Their sound was characterized by extended compositions, synthesizers, and the use of advanced musical techniques. The genre’s lyrical themes explored everything from social issues to philosophical inquiries and fantastical worlds.

“This is Realistic and Super Cool” is set to trace the origins of progressive rock and its rise in popularity during the golden era of the 1970s. Through archival footage, interviews, and rare behind-the-scenes glimpses, the documentary will provide an in-depth look at how bands like Pink Floyd created The Dark Side of the Moon, Genesis evolved from early pop rock to the epic sounds of The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, and how Yes redefined what a rock band could be with albums like Fragile and Close to the Edge.

One of the key moments of the documentary will focus on the genre’s progression from the late 1960s when bands like The Beatles and The Who were experimenting with new sounds, to the eventual rise of full-blown prog rock bands that sought to create something more intellectual and artistic than traditional rock music.

Unveiling the Artists: Insights from the Legends of Progressive Rock

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of “This is Realistic and Super Cool” is its exclusive interviews with the musicians who were directly involved in the genre’s creation and evolution. Netflix has managed to secure rare interviews with some of the most influential figures in progressive rock, many of whom have rarely spoken about the genre in such an intimate and candid manner.

Among the artists featured in the documentary will be members of seminal bands like Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour and Roger Waters, Genesis’ Tony Banks and Phil Collins, and Rick Wakeman of Yes and his iconic time as the keyboardist for the band. These legends will share personal stories of their experiences creating groundbreaking albums, including the highs and lows of working within such a revolutionary genre.

Interviews with these icons will give fans a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind their music, their inspirations, and how they managed to push the boundaries of what rock music could achieve. These first-hand accounts are expected to be rich with untold stories that reveal the emotional and artistic challenges faced by the musicians as they navigated the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry.

Additionally, the documentary will shed light on the contributions of lesser-known figures who helped shape the progressive rock sound, including producers, engineers, and visual artists. The genre’s aesthetic, both musically and visually, was just as important as its sound, with album covers often designed as artistic expressions in themselves. The involvement of graphic artists like Storm Thorgerson, who designed iconic Pink Floyd album covers, will be discussed in detail, showing how visual artistry played a crucial role in defining the prog rock movement.

The Cultural Impact of Progressive Rock

Beyond the music itself, “This is Realistic and Super Cool” will also explore the cultural impact of progressive rock. The genre was not just about music—it was a movement that defied conventional norms and embraced experimentation and artistic freedom. The documentary will delve into the countercultural significance of progressive rock, examining how it became a symbol of the intellectual and artistic rebellion of the 1970s.

The film will also explore the role of progressive rock in influencing subsequent generations of musicians. From the neo-prog bands of the 1980s and 1990s to modern-day artists like Steven Wilson and Tool, progressive rock’s legacy can still be heard in the music of today. The documentary will explore how contemporary musicians continue to build upon the foundation laid by their prog rock predecessors, incorporating intricate musical structures and ambitious conceptual albums into their own work.

Furthermore, “This is Realistic and Super Cool” will tackle the genre’s relationship with fans, exploring the cult-like following that progressive rock bands continue to enjoy. From the fervent fan bases at live concerts to the lasting cultural reverence for prog rock albums, the documentary will reveal the profound emotional connection fans have to the music. The genre’s dedicated fan community is often seen as an elite group that appreciates the complexity of the music, creating a sense of inclusion among those who understand its depth.

A Look at the Decline and Resurgence of Progressive Rock

As the 1970s came to a close, progressive rock began to experience a decline in popularity. The rise of punk rock, with its more straightforward, rebellious ethos, led to a shift in musical tastes. By the early 1980s, progressive rock bands were no longer dominating the airwaves, and many of the genre’s most influential bands began to either disband or significantly alter their sound to stay relevant in a changing musical landscape.

Despite this decline, the genre has never truly disappeared. In fact, progressive rock has seen a resurgence in recent years, with newer generations of fans rediscovering the magic of the genre and modern prog bands taking the genre to new heights. “This is Realistic and Super Cool” will not only chart the history of progressive rock but will also look at its ongoing relevance in the 21st century.

The documentary will feature insights into the modern-day revival of progressive rock, exploring how bands like Porcupine Tree, Dream Theater, and Opeth have maintained the spirit of the genre while introducing it to a new audience. It will also address the role of streaming platforms and online communities in keeping the progressive rock flame alive, allowing fans to connect and share their love for the genre across the globe.

Why “This is Realistic and Super Cool” is a Must-See

The announcement of this documentary has already created a buzz in the music world. For die-hard fans of progressive rock, it represents an exciting opportunity to relive the glory days of the genre and hear from the artists who shaped its legacy. For casual music lovers, it offers a chance to explore one of rock’s most innovative and artistic movements.

As the title suggests, “This is Realistic and Super Cool” is not just a nostalgic look back—it is a celebration of the artistry and boundary-pushing spirit that made progressive rock one of the most fascinating genres in music history. Through rare footage, exclusive interviews, and deep dives into the genre’s key albums, the documentary promises to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience that will appeal to both long-time prog fans and those just beginning to explore the genre.

With its rich history, passionate fans, and lasting cultural impact, progressive rock’s story deserves to be told in full, and Netflix is poised to bring that story to life for a global audience. For anyone interested in the evolution of rock music or the intersection of art and sound, “This is Realistic and Super Cool” will be an unmissable event.

Stay tuned for more information on the release date and further details as Netflix gears up to drop this exciting new documentary later in 2025.