"....well-known troubadour chronicles daily life in Newfoundland.... cements his reputation as a folk singer with a social conscience."
- Downhomer


"Jim is one of the sharpest topical songwriters going.... pointing the way for the rest of us for years...."Empty Nets" conveys some sense of Newfoundland's current catastrophe....a look at a multi-dimensional musician and songwriter who manages to merge history and headlines in a mix few writers manage, and who respects and utilizes the traditions of his homeland.... All Canadians who write songs should be taking a good hard look at Jim Payne's work."
- John Leeder, Canadian Folk Music Bulletin


"Newfoundland songwriter strikes powerful chord.... an anthem for those lamenting the destruction of a traditional way of life.... contemporary leader in this style of music.... reflects concern and identification with working-class issues."
- Globe and Mail