In his review of Axis Mutatis, John Bush from AllMusic complimented the song as "enjoyable".[2] Larry Flick from Billboard named it "one of the act's better efforts."[3] Steve Baltin from Cash Box described it as "a futuristic, fast-paced techno assault on the ears." He added, "The Shamen have already set themselves up as hit makers in the clubs, this new single should enjoy similar dance/club success. Particularly impressive is the enunciation they give to the vocals, showing that techno is not just about the beat, but words, as well. However, in this case, the beat is the star."[4] In his weekly UK chart commentary in Dotmusic, James Masterton viewed it as "a well made single".[5]
British-based music and entertainment retailer HMV named it Single of the Week.[6] Paul Lester from Melody Maker wrote, "It sounded like a compelling piece of commercial techno, and it felt good to have Colin Angus, an intelligent pop star and a decent human being to boot, back in the charts."[7] A reviewer from Music & Media commented, "Very misleading—it's not as instantly catchy as their past singles, but rest assured memorability will grow with each spin. The Shamen remain on the top as the most melodic dance outfit."[8] Mark Sutherland from NME said, "Well, they kick of with another E's are good-type number", opining that "the drug-addled witterings on 'Destination Eschaton' weren't even blatant enough for a Daily Mirror story, let alone a Top Ten hit."[9] Garry Mulholland from Select wrote that "it sounds like every other 'Take You Higher' anthem, times ten."[10]
