BVS
Blue Crack Supplier
Does that make me self-interested? Yes, but no more self-interested than setlist defenders.
I think this pretty much sums up the tone of your arguments, which is an us against them type of mentality, and this one really just doesn't even make sense.
The only difference is that the interests and preferences of defenders coincide with the band's. Therefore, they can adopt a veneer of loyalty and selflessness in order to dismiss people like me as selfish. Also, quelle horreur, I genuinely think that the show would be improved for everyone if they played more 90s material (just 3 songs would do)
There may be one of two that defend on the premise that it's U2 and they can what they want and I'll back up their decision.
But the majority of "defenders" as you call them are just people based in reality. We know what to expect from U2. When it comes to setlist we know they don't vary them all that much, and that when they play stadiums they have to keep in mind the more casual fans. I think many of you are acting like this is a band new thing, and it's not. I notice you ignored my "brave" question to you. I think this is very telling.
Equally curious is your claim that "content wise it is extremely dated." Sonically, I don't think Pop sounds dated, certainly not in relation to the very 80s work you would like to retain. Very little of what U2 has done sounds dated to me.
Here you go with the "that I would like to retain", this just shows how much you do not understand my stance on this issue whatsoever.
Disco is dated lyrically(except maybe in parts of Europe), just like Playboy Mansion.
Sonically I think most of War(studio more than live) sounds dated I haven't wanted to hear NYD live since JT days, and I think EBTTRT sounds extremely dated.