Upon release, the album had some positive reviews. "NME" complimented the record's "dizzying variety of mood and technique," while "Billboard" noted that "the once and future takes yet another turn, saving more edgy, passionate dance-rock for the second side while throwing the spotlight on surprisingly restrained ballads and mid-tempo rockers, replete with dreamy rhythms and even lush strings courtesy of Arif Mardin." However, other reviewers criticised it for lacking creativity. "Rolling Stone" stated, "This album is a throwaway, and David Bowie knows it." Padgham, who co-produced the album, also said that it was less innovative than other Bowie albums.