[1][2] Tom Hull awarded the album a grade of "B+", and wrote: "This one is a throwback to the intersection of the avant-garde with the black power renaissance of the late '60s -- or rather, an attempt to move forward again... mostly this breaks down to two reeds plus drums -- shades of Sonny Simmons and Prince Lasha.

"[3] Rex Butters of All About Jazz stated: "Live and on record, Oluyemi and Ijeoma Thomas cover a lot of musical ground with their Positive Knowledge projects.

First Ones continues that trend... Exponents of universalism and extended creativity, the artists of Positive Knowledge withhold nothing, playing music drenched in soul brilliance and joy.

Positive Knowledge occupies a unique place in the free jazz landscape and First Ones is a worthwhile addition to its growing discography.

"[5] Improvijazzation Nation's Dick Metcalf stated: "The most notable thing about the performances on this particular album is the degree of freedom & energy they project.