FM had very mixed reviews when it was released. It has a 60 Metascore. Rolling Stone referred to it As "frantic, faceless fake-sexy R&B."
I think it was unappreciated because it was nothing like the popular sound of the time.
Almost 20 years later, I'm sure those reviewers are eating their words.
I was only 13 when FM was released. It took me yeeeears to appreciate it. I didn't know any better. The radio was king back then and they controlled what was "popular". There was no social media at the time, so I don't know what the fans thought.
I'm not comparing B7 to ANY of Brans previous works but I get what people are saying.