[7][8] Robert Pollard wrote the lyrics to the album's songs, while Keene was responsible for the instrumentation.

[9] The Denver Post wrote that "the production is tight and bright, showing Keene’s mastery of power pop and thick, creamy guitar riffs.

"[10] The Washington Post deemed the album "typically opaque Pollardian lyrics set atop typically power pop-ish Keene melodies.

"[11] The Toronto Star praised "Death of the Party", writing that "guitars ring, vocals soar and discerning listeners—especially fans of early REM—should rejoice.

"[12] AllMusic thought that "Blues and Boogie Shoes is the best kind of collaboration, one that shows both artists at their advantage.