hey nichobert.....thoroughly enjoyed your commentary. Agree most wholeheartedly.
When you use the phrase "beating the drum", I smile to myself because I've been doing the same thing for quite a while. I think people won't admit it (perhaps they don't see it), but they try to lock the band into their own set of expectations. I am not in the majority here, but I don't believe that '97 was the highlight of the band's career. In fact, while I love and appreciate the period like everyone else, I honestly find the "porno-funk" sound tiresome and boring much of the time. I think it is fair to say that there is a certain depth and "thickness" to their sound now that, while not always as off-the-hook imaginative or wild (?), can certainly be categorized as more mature, at least by me.
Especially enjoyed your nod to 2.0, and I agree completely. Perception can become reality to many, and I think the band is unfairly chastised for the music of this period, probably because of the bitter taste they left in people's mouths due to A) Coventry and B) Having the nerve to stop touring.
I think 2.0, and the Winter tour in '03 in particular, to be some of their best work. At least, I go to those shows constantly, and don't find them lacking at all, in comparison to 1.0 or any other time.

At any rate, thanks Icculus.....your reviews are well-done and a good resource.