I know this will be an unpopular viewpoint here, but the pixel representation looked really similar to the original, to the point that I wouldn't be able to tell the difference at 5 feet.

I appreciate what the author was trying to accomplish, and my geek side totally understands the transformative nature, my photographer side thinks it is too close, especially for a commercial work.

I don't think this was a case of "Internet entitlement", but rather a case of two cultures clashing, which is unfortunate, because the cover fit the album so well.