"If someone, for example, said that another artist's music made them want to throw up, is their own music then fair game for harsh (but open and honest) criticism?"

PS, I think that any artists music is 'fair game' for criticism, whether or not they have expressed a rough dismissal of another's work. Anything in the public arena is fair game as far as I'm concerned. But that's the point I've been making all along. You disagree for the reasons you've stated. We differ. But as said, I'll think about the points you've made.

Also as said however, I'd much prefer to see considered and thoughtful critical posts than bald statements.