Great thread!
Technique: Either I&W or SFaM. Special mention to DT12 because of Behind the Veil and Illumination Theory.
Composition: Awake or, once again, SFaM. Awake was energetic, heavy, inspiring. Phenomenal moments like Voices or Scarred, and unique compositions like Lifting Shadows off a Dream. SFaM, as has been said, was a moment of change for the band, truly defining for their sound, and we have JP to substantially thank for.
Toooooooooooooone: Hard one. FII, DT12 or BC&SL, depending on what I'm looking for specifically.