Instead of being weakened by changes in the band's membership, Southern Pacific actually grew stronger with the new lineup, as their second album Killbilly Hill demonstrates. Highlights on the record include the title cut and a cover of Bruce Springsteen's "Pink Cadillac" which was a sizable hit. The record is more country than their debut, which makes Killbilly Hill all the more highly recommended. ~ James Chrispell, All Music Guide
Following the exit of vocalist/guitarist David Jenkins, County Line marked Southern Pacific's shift toward a more eclectic sound, as evidenced by guest appearances by Carlene Carter and the Beach Boys. ~ Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide
Zuma features the country-rock unit's biggest hit, "New Shade of Blue." ~ Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide
Southern Pacific tried to cross country and rock, sometimes with mixed results. Born from the ashes of the Doobie Brothers and Emmylou Harris' Hot Band, Southern Pacific's eponymous debut doesn't have a bad cut on it. Rock songs like Tom Petty's "Thing About You" and "Luann," which was written by Lou Gramm and Mick Jones of Foreigner, dove-tail nicely with original cuts and more standard country fare from the likes of Rodney Crowell ("Bluebird Wine") and Chuck Pyle ("Jaded Lover"). In all, the album is a very promising first effort. ~ James Chrispell, All Music Guide