Hillsong UNITED’s sixth studio album “Wonder” provides a mellower yet perfect tone reflecting on the majesty and unconditional love of Christ.
What stands out from their new album? Simplicity.
One of the more meaningful songs of the album would have to be “Splinters and Stones.” With its lyrics speaking on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, it a powerful and beautiful song that captures imagery of humanity’s sins as splinters being weighed down on the shoulders of Christ.
UNITED is most well-known for their arena-styled worship music, which features lots of guitars and percussion in the background. However, Wonder demonstrates more of a poetic and mature sound from their previous albums with creative and meaningful in-depth lyrics woven into these 12 songs.
It’s no wonder, with the album remaining in No.3 on the Billboard charts “Top Christian Albums” while the song “Wonder” itself is played throughout the radio and stands at No.11.
Many tracks on the album stand out. One of which is the title song itself “Wonder.”
Simple yet powerful, the song offers an endearing message of joyfulness while living in childlike faith and wonder. The song also encapsulates being in the presence of God, remaining hopeful in the imagination to dream, believing and reawakening the soul while lifting our eyes to the wonder of the greatest truth one could possibly comprehend.
UNITED described Wonder as “to see beyond the facts without dismissing them” and “respond beyond the fear without reciprocating it.”
With its upbeat sound, the song does just that.
“Shadow of Steps” uses as more softer tone than “Wonder” but provides a message of hope. The lyrics offer a great reminder about trusting in the path of God but also learning to faithfully follow the path placed before us with a vulnerable and willing heart.
One of the more meaningful songs of the album would have to be “Splinters and Stones.” With its lyrics speaking on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, it a powerful and beautiful song that captures imagery of humanity’s sins as splinters being weighed down on the shoulders of Christ.
It would be no surprise if this song becomes popular to sing around Easter time.
“Gilmer in The Dust” also offers a beautiful description of Christ’s sacrifice for us as its lyrics also speaks on seeking hope and clinging onto the power of love within a mess-filled world or in moments of chaos. The song is also a great reminder of Romans 12:2:
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Other tracks that stand out are “Greatest of These,” “Not Today” and “Rain/Reign.”
I predict more tracks from “Wonder” to be added to the ever growing list of popular worship songs as this album continues to make its rounds across churches and Christian radio.
Overall Score: 5/5
