While certainly not living up to the original, this follow up begins to take better shape after distance and multiple viewings. It's not trying to recapture or repeat the magic of the original, but it is trying to tell another distinct story about the transition from childhood to teenage years surrounding by the ideas and concepts of the FLCL universe. In particular, the art of the dream sequences are the stand out pieces for the show overall, and the music combines well with those pieces. The story can be messy at times, but so was FLCL original. Subsequent re-watches are opening up a softspot for Progressive that I hope others start to feel as well.