John,
In the case of Lederach I think the architecture is in your face and so the architectural junkies love it. Those who care less about architecture when they golf have different priorities.I'm not a ranker, but I do think the quality of the architecture should account for the lion's share of any ranking.
I don't see the compliments as back handed at all.But, rather as admiration for Kelly's bold effort that doesn't bow to convention.
This is why I believe more play will change people's opinions. They will engage with the architecture more and emphasize that more in their evaluation.