So I'm new to this thread...
I really didn't like Road Salt 1. At all. And yes its because they changed style.
I'm not faulting them for changing style, I'm faulting myself for not liking the style. And I am disappointed that they went that direction. I'm not saying they were wrong for doing it, but I am mad that they did. Just because they are one of my favorite bands doesn't mean I have to approve of everything they do.
Road Salt blows

Also the reason most people like TPE and RL the most is because people usually find out about PoS by liking Prog Metal, so generally they will like the albums that are more Prog Metally the most.