Hillsong United - All Of The Above

Reviewed by Jeremy Chalmers

'All Of The Above' is the eighth album recorded by the youth division of the Australian mega church but excitingly enough is the first ever studio album. Consisting of 14 brand new worship songs, this album seeks to lift the gaze of worshippers all over the world, whetting their appetite for the things of God, reminding them who they are and who he is. Unfortunately, in the past United have been accused of being shallow, but this couldn't be further from the truth here as these songs really reflect the heartbeat of God in the hearts of his devoted children. It has been said that good worship songs should lead the listener back to Scripture; but shouldn't it do much more than that? Good worship songs inspire the listener to lay all things down for the sake of knowing him and to seek justice in the world. Check out www.theiheartrevolution.com (run by United) to see what I mean. The songs on this album burn with the life-giving truth of the Gospel, with true cross-focused songs such as "Lead Me To The Cross" and "Saviour King". As always United get a good balance of energetic up-beat anthemic songs, like "Break Free" and the slower, more reflective songs of intimacy such as "You". Joel Houston's soaring vocals are breathtaking; to hear melodies that excite check out the songs "Point Of Difference", "Desperate People" and "Solution". There is much more to be said about the musicianship and crisp production displayed on this album. But in honesty that is not what is at the centre of this recording.