Allmusic said that Lowedges "retains all the virtues that made his debut long-player... such an out-of-left-field stunner: the late-night atmosphere, the subtle yet dramatic arrangements, Hawley's deep and expressive vocals, and, above all, the low-key and catchy songs that will have you remembering past loves, glory days, and autumn nights... He doesn't make a false step on this album. Most likely it will be overlooked by the masses, but that's OK. They don't deserve to be hip to such a wonderfully intimate and, well, wonderful artist and record."[1] BBC Music described it as "melodic songwriting at its best and a pleasure to listen to".[2] Q stated that Lowedges' "kitsch-free excellence confirms Hawley as a balladeer of the very highest order".[7] PopMatters described Hawley as "a master at crafting melodies so simple, so memorable, it makes your heart melt" and said "rarely does feeling so hopeless and sad ever sound so enticing. Perfect for quiet, rainy nights, this album is easily one of 2003's finest buried treasures."[6]
I think that just about sums it up for me.
