Acclaimed photographer Merri Cyr and music biographer Jeff Apter come together in this illustrated tribute to Jeff Buckley’s classic album to mark its twenty-fifth anniversary.
Jeff Buckley made only one album, but it proved to be groundbreaking. When it was released in 1994, Grace sounded like nothing that had come before – and no album has repeated its essence since. Buckley’s refined melodies and vocal range awed industry giants. His stunning rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” moved the hearts of fans across the world. Grace made clear a remarkable talent had emerged. But Buckley’s tragic death in 1997 left his fans to wonder about all the sonic magic that could have been, and to hold dear the few brilliant songs he left behind.
Photographer Merri Cyr documented Buckley’s career: from his days at East Village coffee shop Sin-é, to his iconic Grace cover shoot, to his global tour. Alongside her photographs, 25 Years of Grace features new interviews with Buckley insiders – including Matt Johnson, Mick Grøndahl, Michael Tighe, Gary Lucas, Karl Berger, Andy Wallace, George Stein and Steve Berkowitz – revealing details about the album’s creation: Buckley’s signing to a major label, finding the right creative direction, the songwriting process and final song selections, memorable moments in the studio, and more.
Lavishly illustrated with many never-before-seen photographs, and including reflections on Buckley’s genius from an array of artists, including Butch Walker, Pete Yorn, Jimmy Gnecco, Glen Hansard, Holly Miranda and Lenny Kaye, 25 Years of Grace celebrates the making and the legacy of this classic album.