That's a well-made comp, trashmonk. I think people are too quick to judge Bowie's most recent albums. I think their biggest sin is not being as consistently wonderful as his past work. Certainly, there's plenty of gems to be found. It's a testament to the man's abilities that his biggest rival is his former self (or selves as the case may be).
I challenge anyone to listen to Thru These Architects' Eyes (from Outside) and tell me it doesn't sound like vintage Bowie.