In a review for AllMusic, Hal Horowitz wrote: "With classy yet scorching performances and songs infused with roots rock, blues, funk, and even pop, it's a crossover album that oozes with integrity, terrific playing, and a loose yet distinctive direction."[1]
The authors of The Penguin Guide to Blues Recordings called Tedeschi's voice "flexible and soaring," but criticized the inclusion of songs that "are awash with clichés that suppress individuality."[2]
Geoffrey Himes of The Washington Post noted that Tedeschi "possesses a powerful soprano, an appealing blues-mama persona and good taste in songwriters," and suggested that her collaboration with Derek Trucks "sound[s] so comfortable that one wishes the married couple would join forces permanently."[6]
Writing for All About Jazz, Charlie B. Dahan stated that Tedeschi "has matured and thus as an artist she must progress. Wait For Me examines the soulful side of music and does a damn good job of it."[7]
The Morning Call's Jodi Duckett called the album "a significant step forward," and noted that "Tedeschi has widened her musical scope considerably."[8]
Chris Gardner of Jambands.com praised "the gritty authenticity of the music," and remarked: "The album cover suggests a woman trying hard to impress. The music within doesn't try to impress. It just does."[9]
In an article for The Music Box, John Metzger described the album as "a welcome comeback — one that often recalls the gospel blues of Etta James mixed with the soulful folk of Van Morrison," but noted that "it still falls a bit short of what she is capable of producing."[10]