That’s the 14 million dollar question.

I think although musically and personal wise it was a much better time, we were in deep feud territory. In 2000 Axl was literally the asshole christ who forced Slash and the band to sign GNR over to him and he’s on stage with dreads and playing nu metal. There was no media support, no rec comp support, barely any fan support as one might know. Try saying you liked Madagascar or Riad in 2000. That didn’t start to melt until CD came out and Axl had found some more relatable members and touring without rec comp support for years. They toured CD to death to establish songs and Axl proved he could do it.

But in a way it’s wrong question. In 2000 the record would have been ranting in the hostility and certain songs like Silkworms would have their moment. But I think it would have been the end of new Guns without the full story being told. It ideally would set off a series of albums but it more likely would have been evidence Axl couldn’t make it without Slash, even with average sales. More power to the rec comp. Given Slash and Axl’s relationship it wouldn’t have been let’s do a reunion in 2002. Overall it’s never been about how good the material is, it’s this business oriented corporate media bias that has to be navigated with so much to lose and potentially nothing to gain.