Buffy drives home, forlorn, after a particularly wrenching scene with Angel; teardrop face framed in the windshield under a rain-dark sky. It's a lovely television moment, and the addition of Alison Krauss & Union Station's wistful, wispy "It Doesn't Matter" touches it with greatness.

Yes, like most WB shows, Buffy the Vampire Slayer keeps a close eye on its soundtrack and has now culled 17 choice songs for an official Buffy album. The surprise is that it's fairly cohesive and quite good, with songs featuring solid bass, wicked guitar and plenty of longing. The album's overall pulse is dark, from Garbage's deservedly well-known "Temptation Waits" to Christophe Beck's subtle "Close Your Eyes (Buffy-Angel Love Theme)." Standout cuts include Krauss crossover bluegrass, Velvet Chain's vibrating "Strong," The Sundays' "Wild Horses," and Kim Ferron's moderately cheery "Nothing but You." Bif Naked, whose very convenient Buffy guest spot is slated for Oct. 19, the day of the soundtrack's release, contributes the captivating "Lucky." The collection isn't quite greater than the sum of its parts, but it would make for some good listening during a low-key party or during the middle of a second date. And just think: no more waiting until Tuesday to hear the Buffy theme song! A-