What makes A Weapon Called the Word by Levellers notable?

This album significantly impacted the UK charts, reaching number 12 on the UK Albums Chart and contributing to the rise of the 'new wave of folk' movement during the early '90s. The Levellers' politically charged themes resonated with a generation facing social issues, marking them as prominent voices in alternative music circles. Released as the Levellers' second album in 1990, A Weapon Called the Word followed their debut, Levelling the Land, which had established them in the British music scene. By this point, the band was gaining traction with their unique fusion of folk and punk influences, solidifying their position within the burgeoning folk rock revival.

Who is A Weapon Called the Word for?

A Weapon Called the Word works well if you're into spirited anthems for group sing-alongs, steady pacing for reflective moments and socially conscious themes inspire discussion.

How many songs are on A Weapon Called the Word?

A Weapon Called the Word has 15 tracks, running approximately 56 minutes.

A Weapon Called the Word

Levellers · 1990

56 min · 15 tracks · folk rock

A spirited blend of folk rock and punk energy, underscored by socially conscious lyrics and a rousing sense of community.

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Top tracks — play these first

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World Freak Show — The opening track sets an energetic tone with its infectious rhythm and biting commentary on societal norms, encapsulating the band's ethos.
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Barrel of the Gun — This song combines catchy melodies with sharp political lyrics, showcasing the Levellers' ability to weave social commentary into accessible music.
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England My Home — A poignant reflection on national identity and disillusionment, it highlights the band's lyrical depth while maintaining a lively tempo.
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Social Insecurity — This track's blend of urgency and thoughtful critique addresses themes of economic disparity, making it a standout representation of their political messaging.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album combines folk rock with punk energy, showcasing strong communal themes and varied pacing.

What we noticed

The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a fast pace, maintaining this momentum through the first half before introducing slower, more reflective songs.
Several tracks feature call-and-response vocals, creating a communal feel that invites listener participation.
The instrumentation prominently includes acoustic guitars and fiddles, blending traditional folk elements with punk-inspired rhythms.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

spirited anthems for group sing-alongs
steady pacing for reflective moments
socially conscious themes inspire discussion
mid-tempo energy for casual gatherings
invigorating tunes for road trips

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek solely introspective experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified the Levellers' reputation in the UK music scene.
Career context: Released as the Levellers' second album in 1990, A Weapon Called the Word followed their debut, Levelling the Land, which had established them in the British music scene. By this point, the band was gaining traction with their unique fusion of folk and punk influences, solidifying their position within the burgeoning folk rock revival.
Stylistic neighbors: The Pogues· Mumford & Sons· Flogging Molly