As previously reported, Epic Records is releasing material that Michael Jackson recorded before his death in 2009. The album, Xscape, is due out May 13 and was compiled by L.A. Reid who "contemporized" Jackson's completed vocal recordings. The title track is streaming now.
Jackson wrote "Xscape" with Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins, who produced some of the King of Pop's last proper LP, Invincible, in 2001. It's an upbeat pop track that begins with a brief skit in which Jackson is escaping from prison. It features many signature MJ moves, such as the upbeat drum roll and synth; however, it has more of a '90s Backstreet Boys vibe than what we'd expect a contemporary Jackson song to sound like.
Jackson explores themes such as pressure from fame and being in control. He sings, "Everywhere I turn, matter where I look, the system's in control, it's all run by the book." Ironically, that's what this track feels like: by the book. Other than Jackson's vocals, nothing in particular stands out about the track. It feels like it was just churned into sounding what a pop song is "supposed" to sound like today (except for the fact that it still sounds dated).
On the other hand, the previously snippet leaked "Slave to the Rhythm," produced by Timbaland, feels like a truly updated Jackson song. It has heavy strings, funky bass, and mix of synth elements that keep the song fresh. So we do still have hope for the album despite the lackluster title track.
Listen to "Xscape" below (via Entertainment Weekly), and let us know what you think in the comments section!
