What makes Hallelujah for the Cross by Newsboys notable?

This album helped reinforce the resurgence of hymnody within contemporary Christian music, appealing to both older and newer generations of worshippers. It received positive reviews and charted well on Billboard's Top Christian Albums, further solidifying Newsboys' position in the genre. By the time of its release in 2014, Newsboys had transitioned into a new era following the arrival of lead singer Michael Tait in 2009. 'Hallelujah for the Cross' marks their first album primarily comprised of classic hymns, showcasing the band's desire to connect traditional faith with contemporary music styles.

Who is Hallelujah for the Cross for?

Hallelujah for the Cross works well if you're into steady reflective worship experience, heartfelt meditative sing-alongs and uplifting moments of devotion.

How many songs are on Hallelujah for the Cross?

Hallelujah for the Cross has 10 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Hallelujah for the Cross

Newsboys · 2014

36 min · 10 tracks · contemporary Christian music

A heartfelt collection of hymns reimagined with contemporary arrangements, blending reverence with modern worship aesthetics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hallelujah for the Cross — The title track powerfully encapsulates the album's theme, celebrating redemption through vivid imagery and a stirring chorus that resonates with the listener's faith journey.
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It Is Well — This rendition transforms a classic hymn into an emotionally charged anthem, highlighting themes of peace and trust amidst life's trials through its soaring melodies.
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All Creatures of Our God and King — Opening the album, this track sets a tone of worshipful praise with its rich harmonies and dynamic arrangement, inviting listeners into a spirit of reverence from the outset.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album blends classic hymns with modern arrangements, appealing to diverse worshippers but lacks standout originality.

What we noticed

The album features a medley that transitions between two hymns, creating a seamless flow between the pieces.
Each track employs contemporary instrumentation, often featuring electric guitars and modern percussion alongside traditional hymn melodies.
The arrangements vary in tempo, with some tracks maintaining a steady pace while others build to a more climactic finish.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady reflective worship experience
heartfelt meditative sing-alongs
uplifting moments of devotion
soulful connection to faith

Maybe skip if you

fast-paced energy seekers
instant gratification listeners

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Fan Favorite — Appeals to both older and newer generations, reinforcing hymnody in worship.
Career context: By the time of its release in 2014, Newsboys had transitioned into a new era following the arrival of lead singer Michael Tait in 2009. 'Hallelujah for the Cross' marks their first album primarily comprised of classic hymns, showcasing the band's desire to connect traditional faith with contemporary music styles.
Stylistic neighbors: MercyMe· Casting Crowns· TobyMac