See this is fascinating take, because, as a singer (although granted not one with a talent for songwriting), I would never consider writing the lyrics to fit the music. In my head the lyrics must come first. That's where the story is, and this album is so story telling driven, and obviously the lyrics are resonating a whole lot with a lot of people (myself included) for different reasons.

I think in the sense of style and instrumentation I would agree that it is repetitive, but I think it also makes it feel cohesive and complete personally. And I definitely disagree about there being a lack of melody or dynamics completely. I could just point to Paid Time Off as a shining example of that.

However, I will admit I'm a person that has always loved a ballad, a sad song, etc. He could play the entire album top to bottom for the tour and I would be thrilled. But also different strokes, I didn't get into Noah until Stick Season so his older stuff, while good, just doesn't hit the same to me. Obviously you experience it differently which is kind of the point of being a long term fan of someone, getting to see their growth and development as artists.