Loved by J.J. Heller Review

A guest post by Carly Pruch

J.J. Heller releases her newest studio album today entitled Loved. On the whole, Loved has the theme of perseverance through suffering and heartache by believing and trusting in the truth of Jesus. Although only one song actually mentions Jesus by name, it’s clear her trust in him is what has and will continue to carry her through life. Because all of us have suffered or will suffer in some measure, I think any listener will connect with this album at one point or another in their life. I know that after listening to Loved, I found myself praying for friends I know who are currently suffering.  

Style-wise, Heller’s characteristic smooth and soothing voice hits the lower and higher ranges. Content-wise, the lyrics are honest and anything but shallow. In short, the album is a must have for any Heller fan. Let me highlight a few song that particularly stood out.

Track 9, “Who You Are,” in my opinion, is the best song on the album. A song about suffering, different stories converge and the ultimate answer is, “I don’t know what you’re doing, but I know who you are.”  It reminds us that God is our Father, and he loves more deeply and fully than any parent will ever know. Even he he knows what it’s like “to lose a Child.” We all need to be reminded of this when things go a way we don’t particular like, or understand.  We need to remember that God is our Father and we can know and trust Him.

“Create in Me,” (track 5) shows us our need for a Redeemer, not just a rescuer. “I don’t want to be rescued,” Heller sings, “I want to be redeemed.” Oh amen! We don’t just need a rescuer, we need someone to come and make us new. “Build something beautiful, don’t leave until you do, I’m tired of the old routine, make me new.” I can see someone who doesn’t know Christ listening to this and saying, “Yes, I want that!”

Each song is its own story, and I could go on and on about how every one could help reinforce God’s truth in our lives during certain times of life. But I won’t–I’ll let you go buy Loved and listen to it for yourself!

Win a FREE Copy!

To make listening easier, I (James) will be giving away a copy of Heller’s new album. Here’s the three ways you can enter. Do one. Do them all. The more entries, the better chance you have to win. All entries due by Tuesday, March 19.

1. Comment on this post below, telling me why you’d like this book. Also, mention any of the following “entries” you chose.
2. Subscribe to Beneath the Cross.
3. Follow me on Twitter.
4. Subscribe to my wife’s blog, In the Meantime.
5. Follow my wife on Twitter.
6. Tweet this blog post or post to Facebook.

(If you already subscribe to this blog or follow me on Twitter, and my wife’s blog or her Twitter, mention that in your comment as well, and I’ll count it!)

Buy the album

• JJHeller.com
• iTunes

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the above product for free in hope that I would give it an honest review. My wife, Carly, did so for me in this case. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”