Jeff Burger of AllMusic writes, "Moore displays the rare ability to convey old, universal feelings in new and highly personal ways.

"[1] Chuck Thurman of Monteray County Weekly says, "It's as if the album was created from the deep, ragged breath drawn by a bloodied boxer just before the bell rings for the next round.

"[3] Tom Dooley of Eclectica reviews Breaking Down to 3 and writes, "This is the kind of album that transcends the folk genre from which it originates.

If you like Dire Straits, Greg Brown, Johnny Cash; if you're into country, rock, blues, or folk; if you like music, I'm betting you'll be blown away by this album."

"[4] All tracks are written by Dave MooreTrack listing and credits adapted from AllMusic and verified from the album's liner notes.