That wasn’t a cover. It was an exorcism. It remains the definitive version, not because it is sad, but because it is hopeful in its devastation.
He moved through “Grace,” the title track, and here the room folded into itself. Jeff played the opening descending phrase quietly, almost apologetically, then raised it into that aching leap his fans would come to memorize. The lyric—so clean and severe—felt like a promise. When he sang the bridge, his voice quivered and then hardened with resolve. Someone in the back sobbed once and then stopped, embarrassed by the intimacy. Jeff didn't flinch. He kept going as if the guitar and his throat were the only witnesses he needed. jeff buckley album grace exclusive