In a retrospective review of the album, Michael Sutton of AllMusic commented: "The soaring, heartbreaking chorus of "No More I Love You's" must've mesmerized Annie Lennox of the Eurythmics; she covered it in the early '90s. The original version by the Lover Speaks is a stunner – stylishly crafted, soulful pop elevated by Freeman's booming voice. Like "No More 'I Love You's", "Absent One", and "Love Is: 'I Gave You Everything'" surge with bruised emotions. But the pain in Freeman's voice is exhilarating, not depressing, to listen to; sad and bitter words pour beautifully from his mouth." Imran Khan of "PopMatters" said: "The original version is worlds away from Lennox's cover, opting for a far more baroque and windswept drama of romance and pop—an apt description of exactly what the Lover Speaks was all about."