[6] Damaged Goods was Lofgren's first album in more than a decade that did not feature guest spots from his more famous musician friends.

"[14] The Washington Post noted that "Damaged Goods has an emotional intensity and racing narrative flow that sets it apart from his previous work," and praised the "typically imaginative guitar work, everything from scorched blues lines to neo-psychedelic sweeps.

"[15] The Chicago Tribune said that "Lofgren roughs up some typically buoyant tunes with a gruff, bluesy delivery and odd production touches.

"[16] The Plain Dealer deemed Damaged Goods "an ambitious, richly textured and eclectic rock record.

"[17] The Philadelphia Inquirer admired "Lofgren's raggedly tuneful rock and endearingly rickety vocals.