263. Crowning of a Simple Man – Dave Kelly
CROWNING OF A SIMPLE MAN (1980)
Dave Kelly
Dave Kelly was a member of a great band called “Ark” that released one incredible album that will be featured later on this list. Ark was a wonderful band that escaped the attention of most fans but critics loved for very good reason. Dave Kelly was an integral part of Ark and his songwriting prowess shows on this solo debut.
Fans of British pop will love it immediately with a Beatlesque quality and an overall sound comparable to Alwyn Wall and Cliff Richard. Very catchy hooks and memorable melodies from start to finish and a message that was upfront but without a “preachy” quality to it.
The albums closer is worth a mention here. A Scottish inspired acoustic number with violin and bagpipes accentuate a story of kings and dragons and knights in a castle. Lyrically sounding like something Kemper Crabb may have written, but musically closer to Van Morrison. All the imagery points to the redemptive work of Christ.
Anyone even remotely interested in the early days of CCM in England and the influence of the birth of a more legitimate musical expression in the states should try and obtain a copy of this great album.
CCM's 500 Best Albums Of All Time 
I have this and “The Angels Come” from Ark. Glad to see you like ’em too.
Check out their new fanpage http://www.facebook.com/thechristianbadfinger
all of their music has been digitally remastered and is for sale on this page, including Ark and Dave Kelly’s solo album “Crowning of a Simple Man” plus 6 other tracks that were destined for a follow up album, but were never released.
Great album. I’m surprised how much I like it after just one listen.