An expanded version was also released with a DVD of videos and a disc of demos, b-sides, and out-takes.

Writing for Allmusic, music critic Mark Deming wrote "If you've never had the pleasure of listening to the Jayhawks, this collection is a marvelous place to start, and fans will be reminded of just how much good music this group made, and how well it has stood the test of time.

"[1] Stephen M. Deusner of Pitchfork Media was less enthusiastic about the release, writing that the compilation "traces their story from their beginnings as a struggling local act to their final chapter as a struggling national act."

and "After 'The Man Who Loved Life', Music From the North Country falters and never recovers.

"[2] PopMatters wrote of the album, "Whether as a single or deluxe edition, it’s clear from the contents of each that the Jayhawks are a more than worthy band for anthologizing.