An AllMusic reviewer found that the band's approach was "status quo", pointing out that the sound of "Handbook for the Sellout" was similar to Reel Big Fish's "Sell Out.

"[1] Another reviewer found that the artwork (which was produced by Douglas TenNapel) and production were superior to the masses of ska bands that had begun to flood the market.

[9] In any event, the music is an evolution from the sound found on the group's debut, moving toward a less-punkish feel and incorporating more intricate horn arrangements.

One reviewer compares the effect to the lyrics of Steve Taylor, commenting that Five Iron Frenzy should be known as "the thinking person's ska outfit.

Specifically, it references the Sand Creek massacre of 1864, which was an attack led by Colonel John Chivington against an encampment under chief Black Kettle.

According to Reese Roper, the song contains a hidden meaning—Black Kettle waved the American Flag which couldn't save him, Christians fall under God's banner, and in Him they find salvation.

invokes the image of John Walsh, host of America's Most Wanted, to roast guitarist Micah Ortega for his constant absence from practices.

[8] "Litmus" takes a swipe at the band's critics within the Christian music industry, with a message that the amount of "Godliness" cannot be resolved through clean-cut measures.

All music composed by Scott Kerr and Dennis Culp and all lyrics written by Reese Roper, except where noted otherwise Five Iron Frenzy Production Album – Billboard (North America)