The I Heart Revolution: With Hearts as One

iTunes Review

Since their inception as a musical ministry, Hillsong United has sought to erase the boundaries between performer and listener. With Hearts as One is the most complete documentation of the Australian ensemble’s worship events yet released, and Its 30 tracks are drawn from tour stops across the globe, reflecting United’s international appeal. At first listen, the crowd noise levels throughout the album are distracting. But as the set unfolds, the intensity of the response only adds to the sense of Christian communion and joy. Compared with the likes of Delirious? or the David Crowder Band, United’s songs sound relatively tame and a bit retro, but it hardly matters in the context of their performances. Signature pieces like “From the Inside Out,” “Take It All,” “Shout Unto God,” and “Hosanna” engage the listener with the purity of their message and the seamless flow of their music. “Salvation is Here,” “Solution,” and “Saviour King” get full ‘80s-style stadium rock treatment, drawing passionate responses. In the end, Hillsong United connects with fellow believers through a visceral simplicity reminiscent of the early Jesus Music era. With Hearts as One offers a sustained sonic glimpse of what the shouting is all about.