Donkey Kong Country games are difficult. I'd say that's the main reason why. It definitely deserves to be over a 90 on Metacritic.
Listen to this music...
Big Top Bop - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=301s-GDML5w
Sawmill Thrill - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcnMB0vLhzI
Scorh 'N' Torch - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFP4wn0dejc
Watch this level...
"On my business card I am a corporate president. In my mind I am a game developer. But in my heart I am a gamer." - Satoru Iwata