The record is widely regarded by listeners on Rate Your Music as a blend of "eclectic ambient jazz," vocal jazz, and avant-garde influences.
: Janet Sherbourne provides sweet, "lush" jazz vocals that serve as a soft extension of the album's saxophone lines. jan steele / ziz!ensemble - desert island dusks (1986)
: The music touches on diverse elements including gamelan (specifically on the track "Mary Ashford Music"), electronic cocktail lounge, and "dark jazz". Desert Island Dusks The Victoria Incident/Has Ras City Night Music Nobody But You Mary Ashford Music Motorway Music Ludo Funkatoniko The record is widely regarded by listeners on
Critics and listeners often highlight the album's "nocturnal quirkiness" and "comfy" yet odd aesthetic. It currently holds a high average rating of on Discogs . While some find the pacing to be slow or repetitive, most praise its ability to create a beautiful, immersive collection of "late night piano improvisations" and "dreamy" soundscapes. Jan Steele/ZIZ! Ensemble – Desert Island Dusks Desert Island Dusks The Victoria Incident/Has Ras City