Description
The Grand Arrival is the debut album by the American singer and songwriter Craig Smith, released on StarSong Records in October 1979, manufactured and distributed by Tempo Records. The album was produced, recorded, and mixed by Brian Tankersley at Rivendell Sound Recorders in Pasadena, Texas. All songs written by Craig Smith except track B5, a song written by the American hymnwriter Robert J. Stamps, as well as the title track, a song written by the British singer/songwriter Bryn Haworth and originally released on his 1978-album, Grand Arrival.
THE GRAND ARRIVAL – CRAIG SMITH – Star Song SSR 8013
Characterized by Smith’s smooth vocal delivery and a variety of song types, this LP shows definite strength as a contemporary Christian contender. «(There Is) Rest In Him» and the title cut are prime. [Record World (Gospel Album Picks), February 9, 1980]
I’m not entirely sure this is the same guy, as this album has a completely different style. The Grand Arrival has more the sound of standard big-label CCM productions, although a couple glimmers of Star Song’s early adventurous spirit can be detected on selections like the moody «Elohim» (with artful synthesizer flourishes) and the friendly rocking Bryn Haworth title track. Elsewhere it’s stately orchestrated 12-string soft rock and guitar/piano ballads, same general neighborhood as maybe Bob Ayala. Includes a cover of «God And Man At Table Are Sat Down», along with a number of originals written by Craig. Craig on acoustic guitar and harmonica, assisted by additional musicians and backup singers. Released several more albums in the ‘80s and ‘90s. [Ken Scott, The Archivist, 4th edition]
LP tracklist:
Side One
A1. “(There Is) Rest In Him” – 4:10
A2. “Imitation Of Christ” – 3:33
A3. “Elohim” – 3:16
A4. “He Is Risen” – 5:23
A5. “Glory To The Father” – 1:30
Side Two
B1. “The Grand Arrival” – 4:13
B2. “The Sparrow” – 2:53
B3. “You Are My God” – 3:59
B4. “Help Me Remember” – 3:21
B5. “God And Man At Table Are Sat Down” – 4:00
Note: Available at https://www.craigsmithmusic.co/shop
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