I think it's entirely possible for this album to have more longevity. Although Beautiful Day was a bigger hit than Vertigo (and won bigger awards around this time in 2001), Sometimes should make a bigger impact than Walk On or Stuck, which didn't make a lot of noise single wise. Both videos (American versions) sucked donkey unit so it's not surprising. Sometimes has a fantastic video that will be a success if VH-1 gives it a chance.
The tour might not have the 9/11 impact of Elevation, but let's not forget that only was relevant on the second American leg. If the stage show is more ambitious as reported, it could make the tour a bigger news item, which could fuel sales. I'd also argue that people attending the shows who DON'T own The Bomb are more likely to pick it up after the shows, because the songs are going to kill in the live format. I don't know that Elevation was as persuasive w/ the new material.
As for the Grammys next year, it's difficult to say who U2 will be competing against, but I can't think of anyone right now aside from Bruce Springsteen, who admittedly was upset for Album of the Year with The Rising. A possible threat. Certainly they will have a better shot than they did competing against a PHENOMENAL Bob Dylan album last time, and the O Brother Where Art Thou soundtrack, the eventual winner.
laz
