I sort of asked JP that in connection with DT12 and BTFW (although more tactfully and indirect), and the response both times was along the lines of "I think it sounds great!" So...
Apart from Noel Gallagher *** - i don't think i've seen any artist belittle their latest album after it's just come out.
I hear you. I wouldn't expect that either. But on the other hand, if John wasn't happy with the production, given that those were just private conversations between he and I, I would think he would say something along the lines of, "We are really happy with the songs, but hearing the final version, the final sound isn't 100% to where I would like it." But he seemed genuinely happy with it. That isn't to say he is
wrong. I'm just saying that, going back to the original question, I think if we were to ask the band whether they nailed the production this time, they would just say "yes" because it seems that they have been happy with where the production has been in the past, regardless what some of us might think.