[3] A live version with lead vocalist Mary Ramsey was also included on their 2016 album Playing Favorites.

Lyrically, the song, according to AllMusic's Liana Jones, "provides a rare instance where the band departs from addressing political and social issues to discuss the very primal human instinct to stay in bed due to the cruddy weather outside.

"[5] At a musical level, the song features an upbeat melody that contrasts with the dourness of the lyrics.

Of this juxtaposition, 10,000 Maniacs bassist Steve Gustafson commented, "We liked to play toe-tapping music.

"[5] AllMusic's Jones spoke glowingly of the song, stating, "Next time when you rise for work in the morning and it's pouring outside, have a listen to 'Like the Weather.'