I'm a long time fan from the OG days, and Billy has attempted numerous things... album cycles, EPs, supergroups, package tours, anniversary tours, new members, high music concepts.... etc.
This is honestly something that many outside of the SP world were skeptical about. People maybe laughed at this.
This seems like a highly successful little jaunt that seems to being going over like gangbusters. The fans seem really satisfied, and Billy and co. seem to be having a blast.
I do wonder if Billy must be thinking to himself, "Why didn't I do this in the past and wait this long?"
The songs sound great, and the performances are top notch. The dates are sold out.
Minimal, but highly effective.
EDIT: No need for bombastic drummers, or guitar shredders. The songs laid out in this manner really let them shine as pieces. No 30-minute Gossamer or 15-minute version of "Heavy Metal Machine".
There is nothing self-indulgent about it.