Interesting post, food for thought. I have just started my PhD in grassland restoration and seeking for methods to use in my research particularly in microbial and plant communities. I agree with you that the simpler the best, of course with certain nuances. However, to be successful and publish own research data we are forced to use novel methods. Moreover, we reference last 10 years published papers and majority of them use new methods. Therefore, for proper citation need to follow how they do, specially for young researchers.

P.S. I like your articles and find them useful for myself.