Some singers sound better as they age. Take Morrissey for example. So don't put it all on age,
He despises smoking, has never really screamed when he sang, cancelled concerts when his voice was giving him problems, almost always played for closer to an hour then two, etc.
He really does sound amazing.
That said, even though he really gives an astounding effort and he is one of the most unique and interesting in the world, seeing Bono sing is a much different experience.
Something that needs to be seen live in the flesh to truly appreciate.
Then you see how good he really is. We are all so spolied hearing him on album that when you see him you can tell that he is doing something few people on the planet can do.
He really is emotive and still hits some great notes. Of course, there is no one in the world with that *EXACT* voice but I guess that could be said of anyone. I think we can all agree how unique his sound is...
U2, IMO, needs to spread out their concerts more. Maybe one per week for a year. I know what one might think about the logistics of this...
He also needs to exercise regularly and NEVER smoke again.
Nowadays it is so interesting to see what he *DOES* do with his voice. Bono's vocals have been different on every album U2 have ever released - sometimes dramatically so. So it should have been no surprise that there were different on HTDAAB.
Other the the otherworldly vocal on Kite, I prefer these vocals and style by a mile.
Anyway, I know I am rambling.
I take more of an issue with some other things. One for example that DISGUSTS me is their lack of variety and tendency towards "greatest hits" live.
They have so many amazing songs they have got to start playing them. I don't care about stadium filling, it is the music.
Player "Stranger in a Strange Land", "Acrobat", "Drowning Man", "A Sort of Homecoming", etc. And not some lame Bono forgets the lyrics and it is a rusty two piece version. I want a full band spot on version... I have not been listening to them for 20 years but 13 or so is enough to demand a better setlist. 11 o'clock was great btw last tour... especially at NYC promo gig....
I have to compare to Morrissey again b/c he and his solo band are my other favorite. They sometimes slip in old Smiths songs, play them once or twice the entire tour, and they sound perfect...
I better go now before I go on forever!