I was there 2 weeks ago. Actually it has been 10 days and 12 hours but who's counting
. Anyway I would agree with all the bars you mention. I also hung out in the afternoons in Kangaroo bar (I think right next to U2 bar). Usually had good music playing and they have a really great staff with several fun girls to hang out with in the afternoons. The would also phone out for food for me, so on several rainy days, I almost didn't have to get off the bar stool ... other than to recycle the beer.
I also met several guys in Kangaroo bar that now call Patong Beach home and this was their local hangout. I'm thinking of moving over there as well, so it was good to get their perspective on living in LOS.
So anyway, I'd recommend Kangaroo bar for good music, great staff and a good mix of people to chat with.