[1][2] In a review for AllMusic, Eugene Chadbourne wrote: "Followers of jazz who sometimes wince at the constant bickering between this scene and that, modern or moldy, fusion or free, can all take heart in a recording such as this one.

The band surrounding them contains players that are comfortable in both contexts, and the material winds up having the rhythmic sway of traditional swing harnessed with the energetic power of free jazz.

"[1] The authors of The Penguin Guide to Jazz Recordings called the album "a fascinating meeting of styles," and stated: "The sound is excellent... and the empathy within the group is deeply impressive.

"[6] AAJ's Derek Taylor remarked: "this is vintage Howard and with the added allure of Clarke in what many might view as an unexpected setting it makes for an exciting listening experience.

In the absence of a true lingua franca, Howard's facility with several tongues enables him to move with real freedom, and across borders.