Going back to almost on topic (did someone shout hooray!). I think fake drums in the way that almost all of the tracks on EIMA and Milliontown are originally written doesnt bother me... Its the horrible ping pong sound of drum machines that gets to me... it just seems akk... makes me think of songs by that horrid little man. I'll be really worried if Jem starts using Phoenix horns on the next album!
As for fading lights... though it came from a slight recovery of an album for the band, it was still a gazillion miles away from even mid quality genesis like Wind & Wuthering... TBH I listened to it and thought to myself 'Thank God they've decided not to sully the name of Gabriels band any further' ... but then they did. I can honestly say that during 'Small talk' on Calling all stations I could feel the bile rising intyo my mouth... i had to swallow really hard then....
Philadelphia cant possibly continue to look that good in the bits beyond the top of the guitar... I reckon its hiding a serious amount of 5 O'clock shadow... surely!!!
Maybe the bottom half of her face is Jems! maybe she IS Jem... now theres a thought!
Right back on topic.... If you really love the tracks you've already heard then you will adore the album. Drum machine, no drum machine... whatever and I've played it about 7 times now and I'll do the same again tomorrow... because there isnt that much else about that is at least trying to be different. I think that deserves a measure of tolerance from the listener.