Comparable to Machine Head's Burning Red, the album's style is largely characteristic of nu metal which had faded from mainstream popularity by 2003.

A cover of Rare Earth's 1971 hit "I Just Want to Celebrate" was also featured on Grade 8 as interpreted in their heavy, metallic fashion.

It was also noted that neither Grade 8 nor Depswa had managed to sell 10,000 copies of the latest albums upon leaving Ozzfest, suggesting that their record labels, unsatisfied with their commercial success, had discontinued their tour support.

Robert L. Doerschuk of Allmusic noted "Get it Out" an AMG Track Pick and stated, "There's no doubt that grade 8 can pummel through a set of neo-metal material and, most likely, tear it up on-stage; the only question is why that may be all it takes to make it in a style whose rules are as rigid and unforgiving as those of even the most conservative genres."

When the band abruptly ended its Ozzfest schedule in mid August, Grade 8 had sold just under 10,000 copies which allegedly prompted Lava to pull tour funding.