Hillsong releases first new album since 2018: ‘These Same Skies’

Originally published in Aleteia.

Hillsong Worship is back with their first full-scale release since 2018.

The new album, These Same Skies, features 11 original songs from some of the most talented minds of the group. 

The record is already available now across all digital platforms, but a CD release is coming on December 3. 

The new album, their first recorded entirely in the US, marks a return to completely original music. The whole album is also live, marking their first live recordings since There Is More, in 2018. 

These Same Skies highlights the musical talents of Hillsong Worship leaders Brooke Ligertwood, Reuben Morgan, Benjamin Hastings, Aodhan King, and Chris Davenport. They made an addition to their ranks with newcomer Mi-kaisha Rose, who sings Never Walk Alone, featured below.

In the press release, Ligertwood explains the album title: 

“It is under these same skies that Christ’s Church – His body on earth – exists today,” says Ligertwood. “And–though separated by oceans and closed borders – the mission of Hillsong Worship continues under these same skies. One in heart and spirit, unified in mission and cause – to glorify the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, to build His Church, and to serve His Church with the new song.”

Hillsong went on to note that the album was inspired by the Gospel of Matthew and the setting of the historical Sermon on the Mount. The inspiration can clearly be heard throughout the album, but it is most prominent in Resurrender, a tune sung by Ligertwood. The live setting of the tune gives the impression of the multitudes singing their praises to the preaching Christ.

Among the 11 tracks of These Same Skies there are two standout songs that have already garnered quite a bit of attention. The first is Mi-kaisha Rose’s Never Walk Alone. Rose’s heartfelt performance has already been viewed more than 1.7 million times, since its October release. 

Our favorite song of These Same Skies was That’s the Power, a hymn to praise the name of Jesus. Sung by Benjamin Hastings, the hook catches the ear of the listener immediately. With a triumphant melody and tight vocal harmonies, the tune changes halfway through into almost a march. In this bridge section the melody becomes similar to a chant, one that we are sure will have an arena of fans singing along when live music makes its comeback. 

While These Same Skies is not a Christmas album, it is bound to be a highly sought stocking-stuffer this holiday season. In the press release, Ligertwood gave a special message to fans as we approach the Advent season: 

“We pray and believe that all of our labour sown in faith will mean a harvest for God’s glory, and we pray something that really blesses you and helps you to encounter Jesus in a fresh way in this season.”

Hillsong Worship invites everyone to listen to These Same Skies on any digital music platform they prefer. Be on the lookout for their physical copy, which will go on sale December 3.

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