with Vance Joy explaining: "Nation of Two describes a perfectly self-contained couple; their world beginning and ending at the bed they share, the car they ride in, or any other place where they're together... the idea that their love for each other gives them their bearings; a point of reference that makes sense of life."

Will Rosebury from Clash said Joy "...creates a leaner and more cohesive project that thematically focuses on the highs and lows of a romantic relationship.

Although occasionally over-sentimental and by its very nature derivative, it is impossible to deny that Joy can write a touching tune.

[6] Michael Hann from The Guardian said "There's a breezy, easy attractiveness to his melodies, albeit that they never fail to do exactly what you might expect.

"[7] Glenn Gamboa from Newsday said Joy "has gone deeper and broader, making singalongs that sound even bigger" and concluded "Joy may have lost the power of surprise, but he has replaced it with stronger songs that will stick with fans as long as 'Riptide'.