Inspired by writer Joaquim Nabuco, it addresses the theme of slavery in Brazil, incorporating these influences with Veloso's perspective, including a mix of unreleased songs and old hits by the singer, such as "Nosso Estranho Amor", "Tigresa" and "Menino do Rio".

"[3] Noites do Norte consists of 12 tracks that address themes such as Brazil's history of slavery and abolition, with the perspective of Veloso,[4][5] blending various musical styles genres such as samba,[6] rock,[7] Afro-Brazilian rhythms,[8] funk,[9] and hip-hop.

[10] The recording consists of original compositions inspired by the book Casa-Grande & Senzala by Gilberto Freyre[11] and other tributes such as Jorge Ben's "Zumbi" and Marisa Monte's "Sou Seu Sabiá".

Nickson also praised the album's experimentation with genres, such as the hip-hop drumming on "Zera a Reza" and the psychedelic soundscape of "Ia", showcasing Veloso's refusal to repeat past successes and his commitment to innovation.

[25] Pedro Alexandre Sanches, writing for Folha de S.Paulo, rated the album a three out of five stars, describing Noites do Norte as "delicate and, in several passages, insecure", centering on the theme of "temporal exile".

He praised the "subtle interface of words and music" in tracks such as the title song "Noites do Norte", "13 De Maio", and Jorge Ben's "Zumbi", which explore the complexities of race in the New World.

[7] Writing for G1, music critic and journalist Mauro Ferreira ranked the track "Rock 'n' Raul" from the album in 69th place on his list of the top 80 "songs that expose the roots and antennae of Caetano Veloso's work".