Music Review: Hillsong United “There is More”

Grammy-winning, Australia based music group Hillsong United brings us their eighth studio album: There Is More, and it is good.

In Genesis 32:22, Jacob wrestles with God to attain the blessing— but obtains so much ‘more.’ His name, his nature, and life trajectory are forever changed. Inspired by Jacob’s story, Hillsong United moves beyond the rudimental principles of the Christian walk in their latest album release to encourage believers to grab hold of all that an all-knowing and all-sufficient God has for us. There is More, is a beautiful compilation of songs expressing this message and reflecting on complementary themes covered across 11 brand new tracks in addition to a live-in-concert version of Taya Smith in So will I (100 Billion X). In celebration of your identity in Christ, you will hear right from the start: Who you say I am and the incredibly catchy second track You Are Life. Two tracks later: The Passion and Be Still convey just that with the former message of grabbing hold of God’s grace in the face of peril, injustice and obstacle is truly powerful. The latter encourages us to understand that having faith in God goes in hand with standing in the midst of your situation and not giving in.

While when paired with the remaining seven tracks There is More is cohesive, as each track builds on the next, a track or two feels like filler. The Lord’s Prayer as a worship song felt more like the same message being echoed from other tracks. That one blemish aside, the lyrics in many of the tracks I can’t help but to sing along to. ESPECIALLY You Are Life! Most of the album is saturated with slower and deeper instrumentals accompanying featured artists, but it always feels appropriate to the theme. About 30% upbeat celebratory worship and 70% slower reverential worship the album has something for everyone.

For those of you curious about Hillsong United and wanted to pick up some new music, this is the ALBUM for you, or catch them as they hit the road in a 14 city U.S tour through the month of April at a city near you.

There is More releases April 6th.