The authors of the Penguin Guide to Jazz Recordings noted that, in relation to the earlier recording titled Metamorphosis, which features the same three African drummers, Four Now is "the better album because the elements seem to work together rather than in strict parallel... There are also fewer avant-garde gestures from the WSQ itself."[2]
A reviewer for All About Jazz wrote that, in contrast with Metamorphosis, "the group explores more rhythmic freedom on Four Now, juxtaposing the cross-continental interplay of drum improvisation and horn improvisation. The results of this American-African cultural fusion are dramatically successful."[3]
A Billboard reviewer praised Purcell's contributions, commenting: "If the future of the World Saxophone Quartet was cast into doubt by the passing of Julius Hemphill, fans can now rejoice."[4]
