This is all part of the slimy marketing that's all but destroyed the integrity of the music industry. The labels have been appointing spivs to help them shift units by whatever means necessary. Therefore inferior stuff gets favourable reviews, radio plays, TV and the more fickle punters lap it up.
The get a feature/good review for placing an advert thing has been happening for decades, now. I've seen it in action.
Does anyone remember the scandal when it was revealed that 'chart return' stores were getting all the special formats and singles with free posters and stuff, in order to up sales totals on those releases? There was one near to where I lived and I picked up all sorts of special limited editions for discounted prices.