What makes Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley notable?

The album is particularly significant due to the critical acclaim surrounding Buckley's interpretation of 'Hallelujah', which has been cited as one of the best covers of all time. It reignited interest in both Buckley’s artistry and Leonard Cohen's original work, leading to renewed chart success for both artists. Released posthumously in 2007, 'Hallelujah' compiles Jeff Buckley's iconic cover of Leonard Cohen's song alongside other notable tracks. This collection arrives a decade after his untimely death in 1997 and showcases his enduring influence on alternative rock and folk music.

How many songs are on Hallelujah?

Hallelujah has 2 tracks, running approximately 13 minutes.

Hallelujah

Jeff Buckley · 2007

13 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of fragile vocals and poignant instrumentation that elevates deep emotional resonance to the forefront.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hallelujah — This rendition transforms Cohen's original into an emotionally charged anthem, showcasing Buckley's vocal range and interpretive depth, making it a defining moment in his legacy.
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I Know It’s Over — Buckley’s cover captures the song's melancholic essence through his expressive delivery, adding layers of vulnerability that resonate with listeners on a profound level.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

70 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

This single showcases Buckley's emotive vocal delivery and thoughtful arrangements, making it memorable yet brief.

What we noticed

The title track features a slow build, starting with sparse instrumentation that gradually layers in strings and backing vocals.
The second track is a cover that maintains a similar emotional weight but shifts to a more somber tone with its arrangement.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Fan Favorite — Compiles notable tracks, including iconic cover, beloved by dedicated fans.
Career context: Released posthumously in 2007, 'Hallelujah' compiles Jeff Buckley's iconic cover of Leonard Cohen's song alongside other notable tracks. This collection arrives a decade after his untimely death in 1997 and showcases his enduring influence on alternative rock and folk music.
Stylistic neighbors: Nick Drake· Jeff Tweedy· Damien Rice