[11] The Edmonton Journal determined that, "if Haden and Walker are out of their regular context they sound happy to be there, offering a tasty, enthusiastic backup that propels the harp man to some fine blowing.

"[9] Guitar Player said that "easy-swinging Joe conjures a prewar vibe as he delves into mojo boogies and slow blues.

"[16] The Sun-Sentinel opined that, "with Cotton's hound-dog singing out front and center, the harp's wail pierces the sandpapery vocal wall like a laser.

"[10] The Chicago Tribune lamented that "nothing can camouflage the truckload of gravel strewn atop Cotton's once-roaring pipes.

"[13] The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette concluded that the album "captures the blues harp master at the absolute top of his game, groanin' and moanin' about the hold misery's got on his soul.