British pop rockers Delirious need no introduction into the minds of Christian music fans. Already wildly popular in England's small but growing praise and worship circle, their 1998 foray into the American market provides what is commonly an overlooked but excellent musical achievement - King of Fools.

Right from the start, Delirious demonstrates its skill with rock guitar and soft, smooth vocals. "Sanctify" opens the disc with dreamy guitar riffs complimented by lead singer Martin Smith's soft croons, strongly reminiscent of fellow British rockers Coldplay. "Deeper" and "Revival Town" are excellent displays of pop/rock genius that will have you singing along in seconds. The group tones it down a bit for "All the Way" and "August 30th," proving their talent in creating soft piano ballads. Smith displays brilliant songwriting abilities especially with "August." Lines like "Thank you for the chance to live again" are thought-provoking yet simple lines that avoid popular cliches. But just when you think they've stuck themselves to the piano, here comes "Promise," a blistering rock anthem. Though somewhat lyrically confusing, bass guitar work (as provided by Jon Thatcher) has never sounded better. "King or Cripple" follows a somewhat frustrating pattern, beginning as a piano ballad then drowning in modern rock in the chorus. One wishes the group would just pick one and stay with it. They choose the ballad for the next track, "Hands of Kindness." A gorgeous piano/ acoustic guitar arrangement is what lifts this song from its predecessor. However, the best is found in "White Ribbon Day," a U2-esque prayer for peace, and "History Maker," an awesome rock charge to be active for Christ. These two songs demostrate Delirious's two major strenghts: soft ballads and driving rock anthems.

If there's anything negative to be said, its the album's middle ground, where the pace lacks juice in stark contrast to the disc's openers. But minor complaints aside, Delirious's debut is a stellar rock disc deserving to be heard by any fan of Christian music. This one just could be a "history maker."

Review date: 8/20/04, written by Samuel James for Jesusfreakhideout.com