"AllMusic's Raggett wrote: "In the Flat Field practically single-handedly invented what remains for many as the stereotype of goth music—wracked, at times spindly vocals about despair and desolation of many kinds, sung over mysterious and moody music". In 2012, Sonic Seducer ranked In the Flat Field at No. 4 on its list of "10 Key Albums for the Gothic Scene", calling it a work that had shattered outdated ideas of rock music.  Music author Dave Thompson described it as "one of the most courageous albums of the age." Writing for Louder Than War,  John Robb noted it as "a staple record for the true post-punk scene".  American musician and audio engineer, Steve Albini, from the industrial rock band Big Black called the album a "masterpiece"          - Wikipedia.com