[1] Daniel Gioffre of AllMusic awarded Metal Fatigue 4.5 stars out of 5, calling it "One of the most important fusion records of the '80s" and "Holdsworth's best work.

[...] Absolutely essential for those who like their rock with a healthy dose of jazz".

[1] The title track was listed as one of the highlights, as well as the contributions of drummer Chad Wackerman and bassist Jimmy Johnson, whom he described as "virtuosos in their own right".

[1] Spin wrote, "Each extended jam has a purpose, and it's not music only those with a lifetime subscription to Guitar Player can appreciate.

"[2] All lyrics are written by Paul Williams, except where noted; all music is composed by Allan Holdsworth