[1][2][3] In a review for All About Jazz, Jim Santella called the album "a symphony of African and Asian sounds that can easily be considered representative of every large population center," and wrote: "The African-Asian concept Moye and Aoki reveal with their first track is but one part of the formula.

"[4] AAJ writer Mark F. Turner stated: "The sound of this recording is also a real treat as each instrument’s powerful and intricate voice comes through and transports the listener to another environment.

The infectious percussion and interesting rhythms combined with a global yet urban flavor make A Symphony of Cities a unique and rewarding musical experience.

"[5] Writing for Jazz Times, Larry Appelbaum praised Moye's "Ode to Wilbur Ware", calling it "a moving tribute to another great Chicago bassist," and commenting: "it's altogether appropriate that Aoki should lay down a spare, deep ostinato, leaving Brandon and Wong to play the melody and dart around one another."

He also noted that "it's good to see creative musicians in communities across the country collaborating and creating their own opportunities in the face of a record industry dominated by global media giants.