 Robert Schneider of The Apples in Stereo said that "in a business that breeds pretension, it's heartwarming to see someone respond so honestly to the music".Local club owner Bob Putnam described Matonis as "the glue that keeps the St. Louis music scene together", adding that for local bands who are unlikely to find career success, seeing Matonis dancing in front of them can make them feel special.However, Matonis has also faced criticism from other concert-goers.