On the album's politically inclined lyrics, Anne Lambert of "No 1" wrote: "Gore's protest songs are serious and sharply observed, but they retain that distinctive ear for a commercial melody". She concludes: "It's impossible to pick out tracks, as the whole effect is sharp, tight, smooth and absolutely riveting!" In "Smash Hits", Peter Martin notes that the band's attention is now turned "outwards to the world (and all its problems)", pointing out the Russian, European and Oriental influences apparent in the music. He goes on: "The songs are still electronically based, but the brilliantly melodic and bouncy edge is contrasted by a brooding ""Tin Drum""-type sparseness." Summing up, Martin calls the album " brave departure."