Hillsong – Faith+Hope+Love

An article by CS Worship Arts Team    2 Comments

No doubt, over the past couple of years the arena of modern worship has taken new and unique ground because of the mates from Australia. Hillsong Church and it’s counterpart geared more towards younger generations, Hillsong United, have been shelling out anthems left and right ever since their album Mighty To Save (which birthed the monstrous congregational and often-covered worship tune of the same name) marked their spot in history as a community of people dedicated to progressing the modern worship movement forward.

Their latest project Faith+Hope+Love combines the forces of Darlene Zscech and some of the regulars from the main Hillsong team, along with Reuben Morgan and the rest of the United band.

I have to admit. I’m naturally a BIG fan of the music that comes out of Hillsong. And for the most part, they don’t disappoint on the latest installment here. Although the songs through the first 5 or 6 are far more memorable than the latter part of the record. And you’ll most likely find yourself sticking to the front end of the music.

The first track is a “folk-y” rock tune from Joel Houston that opens up the album very nicely. It’s a singable anthem called “The First And The Last” and comes packaged with the trademark guitar work of United. Straight ahead and loud. Just how I like it.

The following song, “For Your Name” is probably the biggest vocal sing-a-long on the record. Beginning with a Muse-esque overdriven bass line that begins with the “four-on-the-floor” kick, you immediately feel where this one is going. This song is my favorite on the project and the progression of chords throughout the chorus give it a tension-filled, arena-rock movement. It’s especially good when the chords flop to the minor scale in the 3rd chorus providing even more tension and flavor.

One of the more ambient and beautiful songs is “I Will Exalt You” by Brooke Fraser. Brooke has proven over the last few albums to be a powerful and mature songwriter, not to mention having an absolutely angelic voice. “I Will Exalt You” is a constantly building, simple lyric soundscape that will have the church singing along quickly. A humble and powerful confession in song, this is also one of my favorites on the album.

Take a minute to watch the LIVE video of “I Will Exalt You” led by Brooke here. You won’t regret it:

All in all, Faith+Hope+Love is another great moment of worship for the church to grab hold of. Hillsong is still not lacking in great melodies and movements to create an experience for the Lord to move hearts. This is definitely their niche.

And they are experts at it.

Although, this album is not my favorite from the mates down under, it has several songs that are worth the buy and the listen.

Try it out and tell us what you think here on the jump…

-Jason