Israelis get first crack at the new disc.

Master singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen’s new album, “Popular Problems”, will get its worldwide release on September 23, two days after he turns 80.
But Israeli fans will be able to purchase his 13th album on September 19, thanks to a special request by the Israeli distributors that the new release be available before the Rosh Hashana holiday begins.
Israel Radio’s Benny Dudkevitch broke the news that Cohen’s album would be released here first and reported that the Canadian poet agreed to the idea to let his Israeli fans buy the new disc before stores close down for the Jewish New Year from September 24-26.
“Popular Problems” includes nine new songs of hope and despair, grief and joy, according to a press release.
“Yet again, Leonard Cohen has broken musical boundaries with new creative inspiration,” says Rob Stringer, chairman/CEO of Columbia Records. “These nine new songs are simply sublime and innovative with a unique spirit. We’re absolutely thrilled and honored to celebrate this milestone with him.”
Cohen, a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, has sold more than 23 million albums worldwide and published 12 books.
Cohen, a celebrated novelist as well, was last in Israel in 2009.
While his many songs are often heard in television and movie soundtracks, he is best known for “Hallelujah.” The song has been re-recorded by artists including John Cale, Jeff Buckley and Rufus Wainwright. Arab-Israeli Lina Mahoul won The Voice Israel television singing contest with her touching version of “Hallelujah.”

The much-talked about new album “Popular Problems” has received positive reviews in the Hebrew media and has been declared a great option for the traditional gift-giving ritual that accompanies the Jewish New Year.