I don't assume they are going country - I am merely worried because a band I love to see live is making choices that are going to make it more difficult for me to do so. I think you may think they are going country as you felt compelled to point out all the examples of others who have as if to say it's okay if they do. I get that they've opened for larger acts and been part of festivals larger than themselves, which is exactly why I'm disappointed. After getting to a place where I can see them really let loose and play a large set of music, it'll be back to opening set status. This may be great for them, maybe not. As a long time fan who's been to countless shows, the feeling I get with this country festival, cat leaving, and no nye show is just...off. Was wondering how other fans felt, but perhaps that question would be better posed elsewhere, you clearly want to see every move they make as 
precious, and that's wonderful that they have such a devoted uber fan. I hope for both of our sakes, my vibe is the thing that's off.