If we take Bono's description of the DM work (Airborne, light), I don't think NS or EBW fit that mold, at least the way they played them live (even stripped down they were slower songs).
I hope the next album is a bit more airborne, or lively. I'd prefer to get new sounds from Edge, less rings, or at least use some new effects to drown out the standard Edge tone (like on albums AB/Zooropa/Pop). I really don't mind his style at all, despite the bitching
....but even JT album is a bit tough at times because of the chimey clangy sound on every single song.
I also would prefer he get away from his little obsession with Zep riffs and go back to just Edge riffs which are still basic as shit, but loaded with effects are pretty freaking cool. And it seems Edge has really fallen in love with the slide effect. Almost every solo he's done lately seems to have a slide, and while it's great (see MW live), not ever song needs it!
I've already stated I'd love to hear a Adam driven song, and NLOTH had better effort from Mr Larry Mullen, want that to continue.
As for Bono.....to me he's been a bit of the weak link over the past two albums. His voice has actually been very strong, strongest in many years, but his lyrics and his constant use of certain words (Love, Kneel
) get a bit tiring. And seemed like every song now has a standard Bono yell to either get through a chorus, or the middle section. Less yelling, more opportunity for the band to doodle
Bit surprised we've heard nothing from the SA press. Three full days and nothing? Guess we can take that as possible good news towards a new album. If U2 wasn't planning on a new album this year, wouldn't it make sense they'd already be in SA for rehearsals, or just out doing their own thing? Maybe they're still holed up in France recording and trying to finish before they HAVE to rehearse.