I think people are being ridiculously unfair on this album - it's almost as if, after two very good albums, some are intent on bring the band down regardless of the album's quality. It isn't flat, nor is it boring. It's a collection of songs that adhere to an approach that differs from what the band has done before. It's generally more restrained measured and mellow - but since when does that constitute boring? I'm by no means an Arcade Fire fanboy - they do have the tendency to wind me up. But The Suburbs is a textured piece full of depth with songs that, although maybe not as immediate as their previous output, really draw you in if given a chance. Its all personal opinion I know, but I'm quite perplexed by the level of negativity seen on this site for it so far
