Drumhead, Sept/Oct 2007: "navigates acute personal, political and spiritual struggles...perhaps her most topical, energizing album to date."

Dish Magazine, Issue #69: "a gentle, thoughtful respite as the singer/songwriter takes stock of her life"

American Songwriter, May/June 2007: "Carpenter stands nearly alone on that high plain where poetry and a memorable tune find communion."

Portland Press Herald, 3/29: " 'The Calling' feels weighty. It's not a political record, per se—to call it political reduces the topics to black and white, and most of the topics at play in 'The Calling' are shaded in gray."

Asbury Park Press, 3/27: "one of Carpenter's best.... A number of the songs from "The Calling" are anthemic shots to the gut. The big hooks Carpenter writes don't get lost in the mix."

Springfield Republican, 3/26 (concert review): "The centerpiece of the night was a gripping version of "On With the Song," a decidedly political track that's been getting plenty of airplay, at least in this area. The crowd reacted strongly from the opening notes until the thunderous applause at the song's conclusion."