From the opening synth swells of "Love Never Felt So Good," produced by Timbaland and Jerkins, the strategy is clear. The track is undeniably charming—a co-write with Paul Anka from 1983—but the crisp, metronomic beat and Auto-Tuned polish feel sanitized. It’s a good song, but it sounds like a Glee cast version of a Jackson demo.
By placing the raw demos alongside contemporary reinterpretations, the album invites us into the studio with Michael Jackson, allowing us to sit at his feet as he beatboxes, harmonizes with himself, and sketches out melodies that would go on to define pop music. Whether you prefer the 2014 gloss or the 1980s grit, one thing is certain: The King of Pop still sounds lightyears ahead of everyone else. Michael Jackson Xscape -Deluxe Edition- 2014
Notable editions/formats