the allmusic review by thom jurek awarded the album 4 stars stating "potter and his quartet are taking the gift of post-bop jazz and moving into new territories tonally, harmonically, and yes, thankfully, lyrically. this is forward-thinking music that is full of emotion, swing, and sophistication. it is readily accessible for anyone willing to encounter it either historically or on its own terms. "lift" is a sharp, tough, and streetwise record of a fine gig played in a jazz temple with aplomb and sass. it points in new directions and offers a solid portrait of the artist as not only a strident voice, but as a visionary as well".