Word of Mouth (Vicious Rumors album)

Word of Mouth is the third studio album by American heavy metal band Vicious Rumors, released in 1988. It marked a significant shift in the band's sound, leaning towards a more melodic and commercially accessible style while retaining elements of their power metal roots. Produced by Michael Rosen, the album featured a polished production and emphasized strong vocal harmonies.

The lineup for Word of Mouth included vocalist Carl Albert, guitarists Geoff Thorpe and Mark McGee, bassist Dave Starr, and drummer Larry Howe. This lineup is considered by many fans to be the classic Vicious Rumors lineup.

Key tracks on the album include "Don't Wait For Me," "World Church," "On the Edge," and the title track, "Word of Mouth." The lyrics on the album often explored themes of social commentary, personal struggles, and the power of communication.

While Word of Mouth received positive reviews upon its release, particularly for the musicianship and vocal performance of Carl Albert, it did not achieve significant mainstream commercial success. However, it remains a highly regarded album within the heavy metal community and is considered an important part of Vicious Rumors' discography. The album contributed to the band's international recognition and solidified their reputation as a prominent force in the late 1980s metal scene. Subsequent re-releases have helped to maintain its legacy.