Following time as a student of music in the San Francisco Bay Area at San Jose Christian College, singer / songwriter JJ Heller married guitarist Dave Heller and took her talents to Phoenix, Arizona. JJ's independent debut, Songs That I Know is a personal and intimate collection of nine acoustic pop songs all penned by Heller herself. Songs teams Heller with her husband on guitar and in the co-production seat with Brock Caldwell, who also aids in the percussion, bass, drums, and guitar department. In fact, PFR bassist Patrick Andrew offers his talents on three of the tracks to round out a small but impressive production team. Heller's vocals are inviting and familiar. While reminiscent at times of Alanis Morissette or even Sara Groves, JJ still possesses a voice that remains her own.

JJ Heller is one of those few independent artists that cause you to wonder why they're not impacting the mainstream market. With underground talent this good -- better than a lot of similar, currently wider-known artists -- it's a shame more don't know about her. If you're a fan of acoustic-driven music, do yourself a favor and check out JJ Heller's Songs That I Know. Highlights include "Lover Of Ashes" and the touching "Speak My Name."

- Review date: 11/29/04, written by John DiBiase