[2][3] The band broke up after the album's release, in part due to EMI's acquisition of Virgin Records.

[10] Trouser Press wrote: "No longer an unassuming pop group, the Railway Children are growing into dance-oriented chart hacks.

"[14] The Washington Post opined that "Native Place is not brave or powerful or important, but it's seriously listenable.

"[15] The Daily Breeze determined that the album "leans more toward guitar-oriented pop, boasting strong melodies, airy textures and a sunny optimism.

"[16] AllMusic wrote that "the slick production and sunny synths couldn't leech the buoyancy and emotional impact from the poetic, romantic songwriting and warm harmonies of Gary Newby.