I don't know, maybe I should give it another listen. I'll agree that the production is outstanding, and that is cool to see a band who tried for something, but I just think the songwriting--especially the lyrics (which are pretty bad) isn't there yet. The best thing I can think to say is that they failed because they tried something, instead of releasing the same album again.
I'll also admit that I like some Springsteen, but I'm not a huge fan of his.