Javier Zazueta
People seem to be obsessed with the idea of finding an underground artist or a musician only they know about.
Mine is Jeff Buckley.
Many publications have considered Buckley’s sorrowing howls to be one of the best.
His voice can easily retain its own along with the likes of Kurt Cobain, Leonard Cohen and Van Morrison.
He is never left out from the ‘great singers of all time’ list in several major magazines.
Buckley received great acknowledgement for his only studio release, ‘Grace’ released in 1994, from musicians he admired, including: Bob Dylan, Robert Plant, Jimmy Page and Paul McCartney.
Sadly, on May 29, 1997, Buckley went for a swim in the Mississippi River, disappeared and was found dead on June 6.
For the 10th anniversary of his death, tribute concerts are planned to take place around the world, including one at the Acoustic Playhouse in Hollywood on Monday, as well as a compilation album containing several of his well known songs.
“So Real: Songs from Jeff Buckley” contains 14 songs, including “Grace,” “Hallelujah,” “Last Goodbye” and an alternative rendition from “Dream Brother.”
The original idea was to make the compilation album an introduction to his music; instead it’s been marketed as a ‘best of’ album.
Buckley’s music, voice and talent are priceless.
His music is unforgettable when it streams from the speakers.
He brings magic into the room when he hypnotically whispers ‘Hallelujah’.
“Lover, you Should’ve Come Over” can break anybody’s heart, especially as he sings:
It’s never over, my kingdom for a kiss upon her shoulder
It’s never over, all my riches for her smiles when I slept so soft against her
It’s never over, all my blood for the sweetness of her laughter
It’s never over, she’s the tear that hangs inside my soul forever
“Everyone Here Wants You” was release as a single in 1998, with what would have been his second album, “My Sweetheart the Drunk.” The song was nominated for a Grammy Award in 1999 for Best Rock Vocal Performance but lost to Lenny Kravitz.
Anybody that has never heard Jeff Buckley should listen to him.
This album is a great way to start listening to his music.
Upgrading to his original LP. “Grace,” could be more beneficial to understand his legacy that seems to never die.
For those who already admire him, “I know It’s Over” from 80s rock band ‘The Smiths’ and a live acoustic version of “So Real” are the rare artifacts available.
His haunting hymn is that of a lost angel.
His sad expressions are frightening, his roars sends chills from your heart deep inside into your soul, where it hangs as a tear forever.
Overall Rating: A