Just like Use Your Illusion was used as a way to record and release songs that had been around since before Appetite was released, maybe this was their plan. To get songs they had ready out first. You don't know, I don't know. You don't like it, so you go on about how it can't be true.
"When people show you who they are, believe them". - Maya Angelou
In the past 30 years of this band, roster has undergone some serious changes. There is one common denominator. And he calls the shots.
Amongst all those folks that have been in this band in some capacity over those 30 years...they all seem to be able to release things once they get away from his control. That can't be an accident.
I don't claim to know what goes through the man's head. I know I would not want to get into a discussion armed with the last 3 decades of his career and argue with a straight face the man is a creative workaholic.
Live performer? Excellent. Clearly still digs that very much. Doing new stuff? About as welcome to him as a kid told they have to clean their room.