A press release refers to the record as an insight into Lenderman's "frank observations on the intersection of wit and sadness" that transfers "punchlines" and "rusted-wire guitar solos" from previous works and presents a "new sincerity" and perspective through "his warped lens".

[10] Damien Morris at the Guardian interpreted it as a "joyously weird" LP steeped in religion,[5] while PopMatters' Patrick Gill praised its witty lyricism and "exceptional" sonic sensibilities.

[12] A premature evaluation conducted by Stereogum writer Danielle Chelosky already called Manning Fireworks "one of the best albums of the year" and the fall equivalent of Brat by Charli XCX.

John Amen of Beats Per Minute was slightly more ambivalent, writing, "While the mixes on Manning Fireworks are studiously crafted, Lenderman’s presence largely enrolling, and his guitar acumen undeniable, the set’s overall gestalt is naggingly emulative.

Club,[30] Exclaim!,[31] Loud and Quiet,[32] The Guardian,[33] NME,[34] The Ringer,[35] The Skinny,[36] Consequence,[37] and Slant Magazine[38] ranked it in their top 20, with Crack,[39] AllMusic,[40] MOJO,[41] NPR,[42] Uproxx,[43] Vogue,[44] and Billboard[45] also including it in a list of the best albums of the year.