Wouldn't bother me if IRS doesn't make the cut, especially if cutting it meant Catcher would be on the album.
Agreed, it's not so much that IRS is a "bad" song, its just not nearly ambitious enough for an album of this scope. It's your general filler track, very listenable but ultimately forgetable. It doesn't try to be extraordinary, at least not in the way that the other six leaks do.
To draw a baseball analogy.... When David Ortiz comes to the plate with the Red Sox losing and a runner in scoring position, you're going to be pissed if he lays down a sacrifice bunt. True, a bunt would slightly progress their chances of tying the score, and it's generally the SAFEST way to ensure there's at least some productivity from a plate appearance. But that uses up another out and its nowhere close to what you're expecting from your big bat in that situation. If he swings for the fences and the ball dies five feet in front of the warning track, its forgiveable because at least he understood what was needed and stepped up to get it done.
Chinese Democracy is one of the heaviest songs from either GN'R lineup and blows you away with the raw guitars/vocals, its probably the best choice for a first single. The Blues is the next step up from what they were trying to do with November Rain and Don't Cry; more focused and direct but equally powerful and with an ending that's perhaps one of the most cathartic moments of any song today. Madagascar captures an epic feel from the very first note with incredible lyrics and the section with the spliced voices that is distinct and unexpected but entirely appropriate when you hear it. Better features Axl bringing his A game and experiments with a pop/metal synthesis that really hasn't been explored too deeply and could be a sound of the future. If they touch up the parts prior to the first guitar solo, There Was a Time could very well be GN'R's best song and doesn't even need to be talked up. Catcher might be Axl's most creative idea as a songwriter and demonstrates how much he's grown since he was last in the public eye, while also showing off the true depth and range of GN'R's talents.
These songs are unique and original. They aim to be classics. Time will tell whether they succeed or not, but the intent is clearly NOT for them to be listened to for a few weeks and then cast aside. I can't say the same about IRS, that's the one that doesn't fit.
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