I've bought a lot of sticks from Taboo, with very few problems! Give Rob or Patrick a call and let them know about your problems. I know the few problems I've had were handled promptly and to my
complete satisfaction!
I've smoked quite a few HSGs, and never had a problem. I do know from Rob's emails, that they have just had a fresh supply of cigars come in. Perhaps they are still a tad wet. If you have a spare humidor or an empty cedar cigar box, try "dry-boxing" the sampler for a few days. That may fix your problems.
I just received a Taboo "sampler" package a few days ago,and I always let any of my sticks rest for a week or two, before smoking them. YMMV