Is Square the Circle a good place to start with Joan Armatrading?

Yes, Square the Circle is recommended as a starting point for new Joan Armatrading listeners. A melodic blend of pop and rock, rich with introspective lyrics and Armatrading's signature vocal warmth. By the time 'Square the Circle' was released in 1992, Joan Armatrading had already established herself as a respected artist with a career spanning over two decades. This album marked her eleventh studio release, following the critically acclaimed 'The Shouting Stage' in 1986, and showcased her continued evolution as a songwriter and performer.

Who is Square the Circle for?

Square the Circle works well if you're into introspective moments of reflection, rich vocal storytelling and for quiet evenings.

How many songs are on Square the Circle?

Square the Circle has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Square the Circle

Joan Armatrading · 1992

42 min · 10 tracks · pop music

A melodic blend of pop and rock, rich with introspective lyrics and Armatrading's signature vocal warmth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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True Love Start here — Opening the album with heartfelt emotion, this track encapsulates Armatrading's ability to convey vulnerability while maintaining a strong melodic hook.
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If Women Ruled the World — This track stands out for its bold social commentary, envisioning a world led by women and addressing gender roles in a refreshing way.
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Crazy — With its catchy chorus and infectious rhythm, this song showcases Armatrading's pop sensibility while exploring themes of love and longing.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album features strong melodies and varied pacing but lacks standout tracks that elevate it beyond its peers.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature upbeat tempos and prominent guitar riffs, while the fourth track shifts to a slower, more reflective pace.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.
The album closes with a gentle ballad that gradually builds in intensity before tapering off, creating a sense of resolution.

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

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. 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

introspective moments of reflection
rich vocal storytelling
for quiet evenings

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced energy
seek immediate catchy singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A solid entry in her catalog, but not a standout for new listeners or major recognition.
Career context: By the time 'Square the Circle' was released in 1992, Joan Armatrading had already established herself as a respected artist with a career spanning over two decades. This album marked her eleventh studio release, following the critically acclaimed 'The Shouting Stage' in 1986, and showcased her continued evolution as a songwriter and performer.
Stylistic neighbors: Joni Mitchell· Laura Marling· Nick Drake