The album earned mixed to positive reviews from music critics who noted that it differed highly from the group's previous, mainstream pop releases.

In promotion of the album, "All Cried out," a cover of the same-titled 1984 song by English singer Alison Moyet was issued as a single and became a top 20 success in Germany.

The newspaper's editorial praised the band for their decision to re-record own songs instead of adapting "old Sinatra classics," and concluded: "This album is certainly indispensable for fans and certainly worth a listen or two for anyone who hasn't heard anything about the No Angels so far.

[6] Released on 29 November 2002, When the Angels Swing debuted at number 89 on the German Albums Chart in the week of 9 December 2002.

[8] In Austria, When the Angels Swing debuted and peaked at number 22 on the Austrian Albums Chart in the week of 15 December 2002.