I like them both equally. I get what you're saying about Pretty. Odd. being more real and heartfelt, actually--a lot of the lyrics on AFYCSO didn't really mean anything, but were sort of just theatrical ballads and such. Pretty. Odd. was much more emotional, as far as lyrics are concerned. I like both albums though. I was sort of surprised; I thought I was going to hate Pretty. Odd., haha.
And yeah, I do trust in TAI. Like I said, I liked Almost Here AND Santi, pretty equally, so hopefully they'll live up to those standards too. :]
And, well, I WAS excited for their new album, but I'm not so sure now. The two songs I've heard so far are...okay. The music's pretty catchy, but the lyrics are just...ehhh. I really hope I'm wrong though. I love TAI, and I still love Santi, even though a lot of people diss that album.
And I can't help you with layouts, sorry, haha. I got mine by clicking on a series of links under "my mibba" until I stumbled across the page that has a bunch of default ones. I don't remember how, haha. Just look around.