[6] In an attempt to get the album played on popular radio, Guy added synthetic drums and tape loops to some tracks.

[8] Entertainment Weekly wrote that the album focuses on "tight songs, concise, off-kilter solos, funk-tinged grooves, and impassioned vocals.

"[17] The Chicago Tribune opined that "the methodical finale, 'Let Me Show You', showcases the singer's soft, tearful, underrated voice.

"[18] The Hamilton Spectator noted that "a Buddy Guy album is the only place where the volume faders are often turned down to 2 rather than consistently bombarding your ears at 11.

"[14] AllMusic thought that "purists will cringe at the unabashed commercial concessions," but acknowledged that "Heavy Love works well when compared to the modern electric blues of the post-Stevie Ray Vaughan era, especially since Guy once again contributes some scorching solos.