An Cat Gav
Rock n' Roll Doggie Band-aid
The craft replaced the "magic" as they've gotten more experience in songwriting. They just weren't making albums after/since Zooropa (nothing wrong with well-crafted song collections though), and SOI is a great step in the right direction. Once the guitar player stops resting on his laurels we might be getting a real reinvention but that's another story...
The only time they were consistently great was 1983-1987. It's hit or miss other times as far as the outside world is concerned. (or indifference in the case of last two albums). Also, do not think the internet fan forums speak for the whole U2 fanbase.
In terms of album sales, didn't rattle and Hum(88) sell 15 or 18 mil plus? and if you think Achtung baby(91) isn)t at least the the 2nd best selling and 2nd most popular u2 album of all time then you truly are deluded.