Without reading reviews in assorted magazines, I would never have heard some of the music that means the most to me. And (very occasionally) music critics are also worth reading for the passion, style and wit of their writing.

As for the Internet, it's great if you know where to go, but some guidance on where to find certain things is always helpful. If you just visit sites that cover the music you already like, how are you ever going to be surprised by something from outside your comfort zone ?

As for critics being 'failed musicians', that's a tired old jibe. You might as well say that you can't trust musicians to comment on music because they see everything through their own self-interest.