Michael G. Nastos, writing for allmusic, awarded the album 4½ stars, calling the quartet simply "A great group".

"[4] Writing for SF Jazz, Rusty Aceves declared: "With its tight ensemble playing and approach that balanced free blowing with a pervading Asia-influenced exoticism, the album was a triumphant success.

Blackwell's references include Max Roach and New Orleans parade drumming; Haden is informed by hillbilly music, J.S.

Cherry plays heraldic lines that are clearly in a key alongside expanses of fast flurries that defy harmonic description.

In this open context, the horn players are free to play collectively and the bass and drums can abruptly change mood."