For me, sort of yes but also no. It's kind've a wash actually. As you pointed out, this type of design is so common it doesn't really make the site bad or good, just "normal." On the other hand, poorly done designs set off red flags. So if you aren't capable of producing something original, it's probably best to go with this.

So I'd say it's a safe way to make an acceptable site. But I definitely prefer a site that is well-designed and not this generic stuff that is the trend. I agree, it's a bad signal:noise ratio and it also gives me a bit of an icky corporate vibe. /shrug