Word Gets Around
Stereophonics · 1997
57 min · 16 tracks · alternative rock
A vibrant blend of post-Britpop energy and storytelling, capturing the essence of 90s Welsh rock.
Top tracks — play these first
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A Thousand Trees Start here — This track serves as a poignant introduction to the album's themes of aspiration and nostalgia, featuring vivid storytelling that captures the listener's imagination.
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Local Boy in the Photograph — With its reflective lyrics about growing up and identity, this song became one of the band's signature tracks, resonating strongly with their audience.
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Traffic — 'Traffic' showcases the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with deeper social commentary, emphasizing urban life and its challenges through an engaging rock sound.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album captures the essence of Britpop with relatable narratives but lacks depth for lasting impact.
What we noticed
- Several tracks feature prominent guitar riffs and straightforward song structures, typical of the Britpop sound of the era.
- The lyrics often tell relatable stories, with a conversational tone that invites listener engagement.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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5/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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4/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- stories of working-class life
- wave-like pacing with dynamics
- moments of gritty reflection
- short tracks for quick bursts
- nostalgic vibes of youth
Maybe skip if you
- seeking long, immersive pieces
- prefer polished production styles
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Debut album that established Stereophonics' reputation in Britpop.
- Themes
- Welsh identity· working-class stories· small-town life· local narratives
- Career context
- Released in January 1997, 'Word Gets Around' was Stereophonics' debut album, establishing them as a significant force in the Britpop movement. Prior to this, they gained local recognition in Wales, but this album marked their entry into the broader UK music scene, showcasing their lyrical prowess and distinctive sound.
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 A Thousand Trees Start here 3:04
- 2 Looks Like Chaplin 2:32
- 3 More Life in a Tramps Vest 2:20
- 4 Local Boy in the Photograph 3:22
- 5 Traffic 4:54
- 6 Not Up to You 4:37
- 7 Check My Eyelids for Holes 2:43
- 8 Same Size Feet 4:00
- 9 Last of the Big Time Drinkers 2:45
- 10 Goldfish Bowl 3:02
- 11 Too Many Sandwiches 5:03
- 12 Billy Davey’s Daughter 3:50
Disc 2
- 1 More Life in a Tramps Vest 2:33
- 2 A Thousand Trees Start here 3:15
- 3 Traffic 5:37
- 4 Local Boy in the Photograph 3:32
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
(What's the Story) Morning Glory?
Oasis
Shares a similar working-class narrative and anthemic rock sound prevalent in the Britpop movement.
Urban Hymns
The Verve
Captures a blend of gritty storytelling and expansive soundscapes, echoing post-Britpop themes.
Different Class
Pulp
Explores class structure and British life through sharp lyrics and melodic rock, resonating with local narratives.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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