Michael Jackson
History Disc 2

THE REVIEW

"History" is the album that most divides critics and fans of the King of Pop. There are those who consider it an extraordinary masterpiece or even Jackson's best album, and those who, like me, believe it has been somewhat overrated and even complemented with tracks cut from "Dangerous."

The first disc is needless to comment on as it features a selection of past hits, so the review will obviously focus on disc 2.

It starts well, "Scream," in a duet with his little sister Janet, is an aggressive and danceable track, a song that works and has achieved considerable success. It continues with "They Don't Care About Us," one of the best songs written by Jackson in the last decade, with a beautiful aggressive funk-rock base, revealing something truly personal. The album, so far on excellent levels, reaches its peak with "Stranger In Moscow," a delicate ballad, with a well-chosen base and original spy-story lyrics, and above all, made magnificent by the superb vocal performance of the King of Pop.

So far so good, the "King" is in great shape, excellent album, but these may be the last sparks before a slow and painful sinking...these will be the last stars to shine in the sky of this album.

Indeed, the album continues with "This Time Around," a really bad track that combines a horrible funk attack with a truly pitiful rap interlude... a piece worthy of the worst cut-off... in fact, many assert that this as other songs from the album are "failed" tracks from "Dangerous." Then comes "Earth Song," another Jacko humanitarian ballad... The piece is not bad, especially the final part where our Michael reveals a unique voice, in fact, as we continue listening to this album, we will miss it. Now it's time for "D.S," which Michael dedicated to district attorney Tom Sneddon, who had followed the case of sexual abuse against M.J. in 1991. The track is banal and never takes off, but the intention is to be praised and demonstrates a certain courage. With "Money", the piece is not bad, Michael sings in a whisper, but certainly, we expect better from him. "Come Together" is a reinterpretation of John Lennon.... But why??? No one yet explains the meaning of this cover... Moving on, "You Are Not Alone," a ballad that achieved worldwide success, conquering the top of the music charts in half the world. A good track, excellent vocal interpretation. "Childhood," a tear-jerking ballad, predictable melodic line, the only merit being the intimate and autobiographical lyrics... in essence, a mediocre piece. Finally, the album rises in level with "Tabloid Junkie," a fast track with a funky-beat intro and some good melodic solutions, which will be picked up in some later works of "Invincible." Notable lyrics, with Jackson fiercely attacking the press. Then more funk, though dated and shabby, with "2Bad," and finally the title track "History," a pacifist piece, pompous in tone and music, featuring a Michael more megalomaniac than usual. "Little Susie" and "Smile" are the umpteenth ballads! Enough!... Mediocre in line with the rest of the album.

In summary, "History" is an album of widespread mediocrity that also presents a few pearls of rare beauty, few, perhaps too few for an artist of his caliber; it's a pity because in this work more than in all the others the pop star puts in something personal... something of his own.