Dream Theater – Six Degrees Of Inner Turbulence (2xLP)

Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence is the sixth studio album by progressive metal band Dream Theater, released in 2002. It is a double album, with the first disc featuring five individual tracks that range from heavy, riff-driven metal to atmospheric and experimental passages, while the second disc consists entirely of the 42-minute title suite. The band explores themes of struggle, introspection and the complexities of human psychology, particularly focusing on mental illness in the title piece.

Musically, the album blends intricate instrumental interplay, soaring melodies and shifting time signatures with moments of orchestral grandeur. Standouts include “The Glass Prison,” a multi-part epic tackling addiction, and the ambitious title suite, which uses both symphonic and metal elements to deliver one of the band’s most expansive statements. Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence is seen as both a technical showcase and an emotionally ambitious work that pushes the boundaries of progressive metal.

Reviews

“ambitious, even for Dream Theater, but they make it work through their sheer skill and commitment.” — AllMusic

“a sprawling, dazzling display of musicianship and vision, showing Dream Theater at their most fearless.” — PopMatters