It seems like music that invokes elements of the past have an advantage when it comes to critical reception, at least to me. Do you think that this is a relatively true statement, and/or do you think this holds us back from moving forward with sounds accepted by the mainstream?

I agree with this. Especially at the Grammys

Yes. When popgirls do 80's inspired tracks, they lay on the praise thick.

Hm, I don't think so. Most praise lies in the actual composition of the music, rather than the sound.