Rating the album three stars for CCM Magazine, Bert Saraco writes, "The processed vocals frequently lack a visceral kick; but the band sounds earnest, talented and maybe a vocalist away from becoming a major Christian rock contender."[2] Anthony Bryant, giving the album three stars at HM Magazine, states, "Bright guitars, and crisp drums flow through the speakers as if you just took a bite of a juicy apple — not too bitter and not too sweet", however, "The weakest part of Killers and Thieves would be the vocals."[5] Awarding the album four stars from New Release Tuesday, Jonathan J. Francesco describes, "Embers in Ashes have created a meaningful and passionate rock record that successfully executes a thoughtful blend of headbanging riffs, singable melodies, passionate vocals, and meaningful lyrics into a cohesive package."[7]
Daniel Edgeman, rating the album a 3.7 out of five for Christian Music Review, states, "Killers & Thieves is a rock album with a purpose and message."[3] Awarding the album four stars at CM Addict, Kelcey Wixtrom writes, "Driving guitars and pleading melodies blend seamlessly with the intense drum rhythms and strong vocals of this album."[4] Chris Adam, giving the album seven out of ten stars from Jesus Wired, describes, "Embers In Ashes have created a very decent album, but one that will probably not be on many top ten lists by the end of the year."[6] In a review by William Corbin at Jesus Freak Hideout, he says, "Embers in Ashes has good musical skill and great sounds for rock fans who like a mix of metal and pop in their music. However, the lyrics will need to become much more creative before they make it to the big stage."[8]
