Finally, a second album from the Vancouver folk group Blackthorn with songs from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales on Market Town. While new to the music scene, these six have put together a sound that leaves one wondering whether they have been playing together as long as the Chieftains. The blend of music and tunes is first class and the instrumentals, with a range of instruments from harmonium to penny whistle, is in the finest tradition. ... when the group gets going on a high-stepping tune you can imagine yourself in a pub on the west coast of Ireland singing along.
—Patrick Murphy, Times Colonist

Blackthorn: Market Town - Just about the time I thought I’d had enough Celtic along come these splendid stalwarts with this new package and away I get blown: by the tunes, the playing, the fun and fire of the whole thing; saying nothing of the excellent production (a lot of big labels don’t sound this good). It’s fresh and crisp and full of charm and energy; rousing dances and lovely lilts.
—Jurgen Gothe, DiscDrive, CBC Stereo

[Market Town] is a completely self-produced album. All the artwork and all the creative efforts in it are their own... and we'll be hearing more of that in coming weeks, I can guarantee you.
— Steve Edge, What the Folk, CFRO FM 102.7