I think that being influenced by the actual music has nothing wrong as long as its music continues to maintain its essence. I remember when Bon Jovi went to pick up the Mtv Icon Awards, they went down to pick up the prize and sounded Keep The Faith, it is amazing how great it is compared to everything they have done in the last 15 years.
One day we should talk about the influences of Bon Jovi albums, especially the influences on Keep The Faith and These Days.