I think at the first few listens, you will be disapointed. But as you start to grow into it, you'll start to appreciate it more. That's what I'm predicting. REM is my 2nd favorite band. They just put out a new album "Around the Sun". At first, I hated it. I thought "Leaving New York" was good, and the rest sucked. But I started getting into it a little more. I saw them live in Cincinnati last week, and the new songs were awesome live. Now I can't get enough of their new album. I recommend everybody go get it.
But that's what I think will happen with this album. I mean, I've been waiting for this album since the ATYCLB machine shut off in early 2002. I've read every little rumor and quote about the new album from the time of it's infancy. I remember when we were predicting the tracklisting two years ago, using songs like "Lead me in the way I should go", "Xanax and wine", "Bulldozer" and "Full Metal Jacket." So the anticipation has grown really strong, and in spite of my best efforts, I have a certain expectation for the album. No doubt the actual album will differ from what long term expectations I've had, and I'll be disapointed. But I will eventually accept the album for what it is, not what I want it to be.