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The late Jeff Buckley left a legacy that continues to flourish,
influencing modern rockers like a handful of others have. He had a
way of harnessing liquid fire and waves of psychedelic plumes in his
songs. In remembrance of his highly acclaimed 1994 record Grace,
Buckley's label has released Grace Around The World. Produced
by his mother, Mary Guibert, and accompanied by a DVD that
features live footage of Buckley's performances around the world playing
in concert and for TV programs, Grace Around The World is a
treasure trove of Buckley's material and an insightful documentary
into what inspired him to make music which consequently made people
take a deeper look at themselves.
When Buckley sings it feels as though he is releasing his spirit
to the wiles of the music. His vocals have such a strong presence
in the tracks, not as a leader but as another component that meshes
with the trade-winds and towering infernos in the tracks. Buckley's
band circles around him instinctively, and he hugs every curve and
crevasse with the tightness of a rancher herding his flock. The folky
inlays of "What Will You Say" have an avant-pop shading,
and the slow, rolling ruffles of "Hallelujah" are gingerly
crimped by the kneading motions of Buckley's vocals. Written by Leonard
Cohen, "Hallelujah" garnered Buckley a broad fan base
who loved his rendition of the tune. Other favorites were the exotic
chimes and Middle Eastern accents of "Dream Brother" which
embossed the track with a fantasy-like polish, while the folksy intonations
and wavy psychedelic vibrations which brocade "Lover, You Should've
Come Over" had earth-toned moorings. Buckley's vocals embrace
every square inch of the melodies and move wherever the tide takes
him.
Grace Around The World also contains concert footage and interviews
with the people who were close to Buckley, including members of his
band like Michael Tighe (guitar), Mick Grondahl (bass),
and Matt Johnson (drums) as well as family, peers, music industry
professionals, fans, and the head of his fan club, Laurie Trombley.
Grace Around The World is a keepsake for fans of Jeff Buckley,
and a testament to his legacy which continues to grows with each new
generation of modern rockers.
-Susan Frances
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