Fanning's vocals drew praise; Allmusic's Andy Whitman said he was a "fine, soulful singer" whose "vocal presence alone merits attention". Other aspects of the album, though, were seen in a more negative light. musicOMH said songs like "Wash Me Clean" "simply lack a strong enough melody", while the BBC wrote that Fanning "might have to be happy with 'straight in at 101,' in the UK" despite topping the ARIA Albums Chart. "The Age" concluded its review by calling "Tea & Sympathy" "a low-key but worthy personal offering". In October 2010, "Tea & Sympathy" (2005) was listed in the book, "100 Best Australian Albums". "Tracks 1, 2, 4, 6 and 9–14." "Tracks 3, 5, 7 and 8."