Originally planned as the third single from the album, it was later deferred by two weeks and expanded to a mini-album in order to release the live tracks recorded in August.

In his review for BBC Wales, James McLaren wrote that, "its complexity, its introspection, its sheer grandiosity and epic nature gets better with each listen; this EP shows Funeral's ability to interact and involve an audience, creating a celebratory atmosphere that is communicated very well here".

[3] Sebastian Wahle of Ox-Fanzine said "this CD shows the development of the band very well, as well as their versatility, and the bottom line is that "The Great Wide Open" is certainly a nice Christmas present for your emo friend.

[6] Alex Flecther wrote in Digital Spy that "while it may lack the sneering, viciousness of some of their earlier works, 'The Great Wide Open' can't be knocked for its aspirations; and although the Welsh post-hardcore screamers may not be quite big enough to fill up football grounds yet, if they have a couple more of these chest-beating anthems locked up in a cupboard somewhere they might not be too far off.

[5] Trey Anastasio of Sputnikmusic gave it a 4.0 rating, stating; "whether this album was released for nostalgia or as kind of an apology to the fans, the end result is the same ... better sounding, heavier versions of the songs on their first two EPs that is well worth seeking out".