Los Angeles Times music critic Robert Hilburn called it a "wonderfully appealing indie debut" with "solid songwriting craft … sweet melodies and soulful introspection.

"[11] AllMusic writer Rick Anderson called it "weird but lovable" and "as fresh and bracing as a bucket of ice water in the face," and said that the band's ability to shift between musical styles made it hard to pigeonhole.

"[13] Paul Evans of Rolling Stone praised Ackerson's production, saying "he that delivers sheer infectious fun—songs packed with sing-along choruses and catchy, heavily reverbed effects.

"[10] Joe Gore of Guitar Player called the album "an inspired blend of blissful pop melody and whacked-out psychedelia," comparing it favorably with Medicine and My Bloody Valentine.

[14] Trouser Press writer Ira Robbins called it "challenging, uneven and rewarding," and that Polara's sound offered "a door opening to many new possibilities" for Ackerson's love of studio experimentation.