Sidetracked

It’s still hard to believe Michael Jackson is dead — especially since he’s releasing new music.

At midnight today, his latest single, “This Is It,” was officially released through the late singer’s web site. It kicks off a promotional blitz for the upcoming 2-disc CD and documentary chronicling the tour that never was.

Before listening to the single, I expected yet another sad attempt to reclaim the past. Jackson’s most recent efforts, after all, have been largely forgettable. But this song is actually pretty good.

Part of the reason is because not only does it conjur the past — it’s actually from the past. The record was reportedly written during the sessions for 1991’s “Dangerous” album. While the “Dangerous” records were inferior to the songs from “Thriller” and “Bad,” Jackson still had a sense of melody then, as is conveyed through this nice ballad that actually sticks in your head upon first listen.

Backing vocals by Jackson’s brothers add a nice warm feel to it. And while it features lots of strings, it’s not overproduced. Close, but not. On so many of his more recent tunes, Jackson seems to be trying too hard, as if trying to overcome bad song writing with his vocals. But here he’s relaxed, letting the song do more of the work.

The LA Times blog suggested it could reap Jackson another Grammy, and I agree. Even in death, Jackson will never live up to “Thriller.” And this one doesn’t compare to even the weakest cuts on that album. Still, this is the best thing he’s done since “Dangerous.”

Posted on October 12th, 2009 by Pat
Filed under: Music