Some critics saw "Head Music" as a major step forward from "Coming Up" and as a sign that the band's new line-up had been vindicated from doubters. Christina Rees of the "Dallas Observer" wrote: "If Suede couldn't erase the influence of Oakes' predecessor, Bernard Butler, on 1996's "Coming Up", it has certainly succeeded now" She also added, "If the 'new' Suede didn't show up on "Coming Up", it seethes through "Head Music"." Similarly an Australian Broadcasting Corporation article wrote: ""Head Music" fills in the gaps of "Coming Up" and succeeds in being the best record the band has made since its debut, finally laying Bernard Butler's looming ghost to rest." Fans and critics commented on Anderson's repetitive lyrics and lack of lyrical themes, in particular "Savoir Faire", which received attention and criticism. In 2002, Anderson admitted that he was addicted to crack cocaine for a period of time. Many critics linked the album's perceived lack of creativity to Anderson's increasing drug use. Nick Duerden of "The Independent" felt that "Head Music" was blighted by his descent into addiction, calling it a "rather ugly record". Writing for "The Guardian", John Harris had similar views, saying "it was a fair bet, therefore, that the drug played its part in the creation of their most ludicrous album, 1999's "Head Music"."