The Word Is Out cover

The Word Is Out

Jermaine Stewart · 1984

37 min · 10 tracks · contemporary R&B

A vibrant blend of contemporary R&B and pop, infused with danceable grooves and heartfelt lyrics.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Word Is Out — The title track exemplifies Stewart's signature sound with its infectious chorus and dance-oriented beat, making it an anthem for self-expression.
  • →
    I Like It — This track features a catchy hook and playful lyrics that encapsulate the fun and carefree spirit of the early '80s pop scene.
  • →
    Get Over It — Offering an upbeat message about moving past heartache, this song showcases Stewart's vocal range and emotional delivery.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

43 /100
Lowland
Higher than 2% of albums we've rated

The album features catchy melodies and danceable grooves but lacks depth in songwriting and production.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature upbeat tempos and strong hooks, while the fourth track introduces a slower groove that contrasts with the preceding energy.
  • Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the pop sensibility of the album.
  • The album closes with a ballad that shifts the mood significantly, creating a reflective ending after a series of dance-oriented tracks.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • The Word Is Out

    The bridge shifts from a narrative perspective to a direct call for acceptance, emphasizing openness and honesty in relationships.

    This structural choice amplifies the song's theme of liberation by directly engaging listeners at a personal level.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The Word Is Out 3:29
  • 2 I Like It 3:33
  • 3 In Love Again 3:43
  • 4 Spies 4:04
  • 5 Reasons Why 4:45
  • 6 Get Over It 3:33
  • 7 You 2:52
  • 8 Month of Mondays 3:25
  • 9 Debbie 3:14
  • 10 Brilliance 4:42

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata