re: Texas crutch, yea or nay?

It all depends on what you want for your end product.

Franklin did an experiment testing all three methods - Foil, Butcher Paper, and no wrap.

Video

He uses butcher paper and is considered some of the best bbq in the country.

As far as brisket goes

Foil - You get more beef flavor (less smoke) and very moist.
Paper - You get a balanced beef and smokey flavor since the paper is permeable and allows some smoke in.
No Wrap - You get a stronger smoke flavor (less beef) and more crispy.

I usually use foil because I don't have butcher paper, but I just ordered some and will test it out on the 4th.