EPAA is that rare song that is long but could hardly be called epic as it's a bit of a mess. Normally I'd say U2 would be better off doing more wandering, stream of consciousness type stuff like this (from a lyrical and musical standpoint), but this one is really lacking focus and any kind of thematic clarity.
In short, it sounds good when you listen to it, but it's a bit ridiculous if you give it much thought. Crumbs obviously has a much more concise subject matter, and even though it's a bit hamfisted at times, there are some great lines. The choir effect at the end isn't exactly subtle either, and the song could have benefitted from better production in the studio, much like the canned strings on OOTS.
I would still have to choose Crumbs between the two, even if it's just for Bono's passionate vocal, especially on the chorus. When he shouts "Hey!" after the last one, you can just see him in the studio caught up in the moment of performing. It's one of the high points on the album for me. Edge ain't doing too bad on this one either.
I'm waiting for the next thread, where we pit Promenade against All Becaue of You, or some other bizarre matchup.