MacDougall departed from the band two months prior to the album's release,[5] and was replaced by Brett Nash.

"[14] Timothy Monger of AllMusic wrote, "Band of Horses play to their strengths here on what feels like a solid return to form.

"[1] Ross Horton of The Line of Best Fit concurred, writing, "Things Are Great is certainly a return to their best form, and it shows signs of the band entering a new golden era with the next one.

"[11] In a mixed review, Justin Cober-Lake of PopMatters wrote, "Bridwell has a very clear vision for his band and presents it well.

His smart lyrics match his previous standards, and the group execute the album well, but it feels too much as if they're standing in place.