Reviewed by Ian Webber

What begun as an annual conference over 10 years ago is now an international ministry of Hillsong proportions, prolific in its media output. This live recording of the 2008 Planetshakers conference follows similar offerings of previous years. The sound of Planetshakers is, of course, particularly reminiscent of the other Australian worship rockers, Hillsong United, with whom they share many common qualities. This is worship-woven pop rock, driven along by a pounding bass line and tight drums. The sound quality is excellent for a live recording with fresh, bright vocals and instrumentation. The likes of Joth Hunt and Henry Seeley lead with passion through the upbeat "Better Than Life" and the harder edged "All For Love". Quieter moments are heard in the open and honest "Surrender". Without a doubt, this is a recording full of solid songs destined for some congregational use. They do, however, lack the variety and depth of material produced by the Redmans and Tomlins. The CD here is accompanied by a live DVD that is full of extras with rapid cuts and swinging cameras provide exciting coverage of the conference worship time. I am sure this album will appeal to fans of Hillsong United though it breaks no new ground.

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