He DOES repeat lots of riffs and stuff. Just like Stevie with her repeated lyrics in Destiny Rules/Illume and Blue Lamp/Welcome to the Room, Sara...etc. They say it's just like a continuation of their music, it all brings the songs all together in a way.
I likened this argument to ice cream once. Hehe.
I like chocolate ice cream, I also love mint chocolate chip and chocolate almond, etc. They are similar, but have a different flavor to them. I love them ALL, they are all GOOD, but some have the same properties (chocolate).
Those riffs he re-uses are STRONG riffs, they aren't anything to sneeze at. It kinda gives all those songs a thread (THAT'S that word I was looking for a few minutes ago. LOL) to link them, like with Stevie's lyrics. Looks like Big Love is a serious contender for seguewaying (is that the right word? LOL) into other songs, huh?
Faces...I'm so glad you joined the Ledge because I can tell you REALLY love discussion and debate!!