The album was partially inspired by the touring schedule of Last Night on Earth, and vocalist/guitarist Charlie Fink finding a close friend engaged upon returning home.

[2] Afterwards, the band trekked to La Fabrique in the south of France to continue writing, but less work was completed due to distractions.

"[5] Hazel Sheffield of NME called Heart of Nowhere a "record of rare precision; the kind that comes from figuring out exactly what you want.

"[7] Uncut summarised, "Their fourth album continues in the vein of 2011's Last Night on Earth, divining its inspiration from cool, crisp '80s US new wave, "Every Breath You Take" bass lines, Brat Pack soundtracks and wistful songs about girls.

"[4] Conversely, Andy Gill of The Independent felt the record was too reliant on yesterday: "Three songs feature "time" in the title, which is at least two too many; and while it's pleasantly effected for the most part, it's hard to get involved in someone else's nostalgia.