Train of Thought

Train of Thought represents a significant stylistic pivot for Dream Theater, moving away from the sprawling, experimental nature of Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence toward a cohesive, 'heavy' sound. Inspired by the energy of their live shows and the heavier tracks in their catalog, the band wrote the album in just three weeks, resulting in a more immediate and aggressive feel. This record is the second chapter in Mike Portnoy's 'Twelve-step Suite' with the track 'This Dying Soul', and it continues the band's tradition of 'meta-sequencing' by beginning with the final note of the previous album and ending with the first note of the next. Critics, including AllMusic, noted the shift toward a darker, more contemporary metal sound, sometimes drawing comparisons to Metallica or Tool. While it alienated some fans who preferred their more melodic, symphonic side, it solidified their standing with the burgeoning 'djent' and modern prog-metal movements.