I don't think bland means not varied, and in that regard, I kind of see what he means in regards to Desolation Rose, which was a mix of great stuff and, well, some bland moments. Even the best songs on that record seem to have some bland moments. I like the record, but it's not one I revisit a lot.
Now...Banks of Eden is another story. The more time passes, the more I realize that is one of their best albums. Phenomenal from start to finish (and even moreso if you count the bonus tracks).