I rather enjoy the finishes for the most part. The way I see it is that Remo is built on manufacturing synthetic products. They don't just make congas. They use alot of plastic. They can't compete with the likes of S.O.S or maybe even LP who make fantastic wood drums. But why would they want to compete with them by making an identical product? It's been done... These drums, made from acousticon (a plastic/wood composite from the looks of it), and outrageous/intriguing finishes set them apart in my opinion. It's something different. Not for everyone.
I don't play in a traditional afro-cuban band or anything like that (although I'd eventually like to) so that's probably why this kind of thing appeals to me more than you. I enjoy these finishes better than the graphics Meinl congas have...I mean come on

I enjoy their other drums, just not their designer ones.