I will probably get flamed when I say this but...I have no nostalgia for the "original" Gibson basses. That's why I always played a Fender or RIC except for a one month stint with a Ripper (it was a good bass). This is just my opinion, but I think you can compare an old EBO to an old Fender absolutely unplugged, and the body of the Fender will resonate much more musically without even being plugged in (I did this many many years ago).
I do like the NR design a lot. If the pickups and body shape combine to make this a lively and resonant instrument, I would be interested. The shape is definitely cool.
What I look for is a good well balanced sound with great note definition. I like a solid bottom, screaming highs, and a good "click" when I use a pick.
No nostalgia here...YMMV