Lovemachine97, you nailed it with the whole STP and Jack in the Box analogy. That's definitely one of the reason's why Black Gives Way to Blue was so successful for Alice In Chains - because it sounds like AIC. While AIC is a versatile band as well (not as versatile as STP of course), Black Gives Way was a "safe" album full of accessible grunge metal songs that both hardcore and moderate fans of the band could like. I'm not saying STP should make their next album something that sounds like Core or Purple, but if the band is genuinely concerned about remaining relevant and making some more money along with touring, then that's what they should do.
Personally, while it would be great to see STP chug out a couple more rock radio classics in the future, it's not something I'm expecting or something I desperately want to happen. I've accepted the fact that it's very possible that STP's most relevant days are far behind them. Aslong as the band continues to be a great live act and put out good music (and Scott's in a good place), then I'm happy.