Matthew Oshinsky, in 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die, praises the "merciless refrain" in "Hoochie Coochie Man" and the "unvarnished moaning" in "Baby Please Don't Go". He also enjoys Muddy's powerful baritone, Cotton's harmonica playing, Spann's "pub piano"–like playing and the overall danceable music.
Matthew Oshinsky, in 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die, praises the catchy melody in "Hoochie Coochie Man" and the emotive vocals in "Baby Please Don't Go". He also enjoys Muddy's deep voice, Cotton's harmonica solos, Spann's dynamic piano playing and the overall lively music.