JJ Heller and Lisa Curl

In our present era, the musicians and bands leading the alternative and independent music scenes are primarily male dominated. The Decemberists, Bright Eyes, The Shins, Modest Mouse, and Spoon, are among the many “boy bands” that are making their mark on the hearts and minds of listeners worldwide. The list of female artists in this genre, in my opinion, is greatly lacking. It seems that the majority of female artists are either pop idols or country icons. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, it is refreshing to see some new female artists making their presence known in the independent and alternative music worlds. JJ Heller and Lisa Curl, while completely different stylistically, are two up and coming female artists that will hopefully have a part in the growth of the female independent music scene.

Curl’s newly released second recording, the five-track My Poppet, My Pigsnie is an interesting blend of nigh club jazz and folk. The album takes a few listens to get used to the raw quality of the recording and the loose floating style of Curl’s vocals but it’s worth time. The instrumentation is definitely eclectic, ranging from cowbell to keyboard and from tambourine to folk guitar. The opening track, “Better That Way”, kind of feels like one big jam session with the bouncy bass and cowbell, but it works. Curl’s music has a distinct laid-back feel that just makes you feel good and relaxed.

JJ Heller’s third release, Only Love Remains, is a deeply spiritual, inspirational, and beautiful experience all rolled into eleven tracks. Each song is either meant to tell a story or get across a message across and Heller does that consistently throughout the album with out ever going over the top or becoming cliche. Just as noteworthy as Heller’s lyrics and vocals is the flawless instrumentation and guitar that while understated, gives the album its power and presence. On perhaps the most personal and emotional track “Make Believe”, Heller wears her emotions on her sleeve as she sings “You said you couldn’t keep me when you were seventeen/Too young to be a father/You kissed my hand and took your leave/And you taught me how to make believe.” The thing that sets Heller ahead of the rest is the honesty and simplicity she portrays in the album. She doesn’t try and dress it up which lends to her credibility as an artist.

Hopefully, Heller and Curl are a glimpse into what the future holds for female artists looking to break out of the mold and make their mark with the rest of the big boys in the alternative music world.

To purchase a copy of JJ Heller’s album, please click here. For a copy of Lisa Curl’s album, please click here.

Posted on May 7, 2007 12:00 AM