What's the Word is the second studio album by the Austin, Texas-based blues band the Fabulous Thunderbirds, released in 1980. Like its predecessor, the album initially sold poorly, but is now regarded as a noteworthy blues recording of the period. The 2000 CD reissue on Benchmark Records contains three bonus tracks, two of which were recorded live at Club Koda, Austin, Texas.

Critical reception

The Boston Globe wrote that the band "play no-frills, gut-bucket R&B and blues with enough enthusiasm and intensity to overcome any doubts one might have about their authenticity." "Girls Go Wild and What's the Word? are Texas barroom blues at their greasiest, and Kim Wilson's expressive delivery seems to ease his confusion at whether this woman that keeps popping up is his full- or part-time lover."

Track listing

All tracks composed by Kim Wilson; except where indicated

Bonus tracks on some editions

Personnel

Musicians

Technical