What makes Zion by Hillsong United notable?

'Zion' debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard Top Christian Albums chart and received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and lyrical depth. The song 'Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)' became especially notable, achieving widespread popularity and becoming one of the most recognized contemporary worship songs globally, influencing many artists within the genre. Released on January 1, 2013, 'Zion' marks a significant progression for Hillsong United as their first studio album since the acclaimed 'Aftermath' in 2010. This album reflects their evolution towards a more expansive sound, blending contemporary worship with indie pop influences while solidifying their position as leaders in modern worship music.

Zion works well if you're into wave-like emotional progression, sweeping journey of faith and immersive late-night worship sessions.

How many songs are on Zion?

Zion has 13 tracks, running approximately 70 minutes.

Zion

Hillsong United · 2013

70 min · 13 tracks · indie pop

A sweeping blend of atmospheric worship and introspective lyrics, anchored by soaring melodies and rich, textural instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) — This track stands out for its haunting melody and powerful themes of faith and trust amidst uncertainty, resonating deeply with listeners during worship experiences.
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Scandal of Grace — With its poignant lyrics about grace and redemption, this track encapsulates the album's core message while showcasing strong vocal performances.
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Love Is War — This song's dynamic arrangement and evocative lyrics explore the struggle of faith against worldly challenges, making it a compelling anthem within the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production but follows familiar worship music templates.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that build in intensity, culminating in the climactic 'Oceans' before transitioning to more subdued pieces.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies, creating a rich texture that enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics.
The interlude 'Zion' serves as a reflective pause, allowing for a shift in mood before the final tracks resume with a more anthemic feel.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

wave-like emotional progression
sweeping journey of faith
immersive late-night worship sessions
cathartic moments of reflection
uplifting anthems for group worship

Maybe skip if you

seeking quick, upbeat tracks
prefer standalone singles format

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on January 1, 2013, 'Zion' marks a significant progression for Hillsong United as their first studio album since the acclaimed 'Aftermath' in 2010. This album reflects their evolution towards a more expansive sound, blending contemporary worship with indie pop influences while solidifying their position as leaders in modern worship music.
Stylistic neighbors: Bethel Music· Elevation Worship· Maverick City Music