"Led by [guitarist Eric] Pulido's breathy vocals, the album sticks with a balanced, wistful mood somewhere between atmospheric rock and rust-colored folk. A recurrent nod to understated funk and sporadic prog influences sauté in unassuming psychedelia. It takes a few spins for the tunes to register as some seem more like provocative set pieces than songs. But once they do, the thoughtful lyrics and sometimes diffuse sonics kick in. Between the concepts and soundscape, there is plenty to chew on. The professionalism and classy production (by John Congleton) create Midlake's sense of camaraderie, mystery, and imagination. It's an impressive return for a band many assumed might not reappear".