Michael Jackson, The Jackson 5 – The Best (5xLP, Clear Vinyl)

Michael Jackson & Jackson 5's The Best revisits the Motown years that first introduced Michael Jackson to the world, tying Jackson 5 hits to his earliest solo recordings in one concise sweep. Timed to the group's 60th anniversary, this Japan-exclusive compilation works as a snapshot of the moment Michael moved from astonishing child lead singer to solo star, with era-defining singles like I Want You Back, ABC and I'll Be There setting the pace.

What makes this set useful is its focus. Rather than drifting into later blockbuster years, it stays with the material that built the foundation: the Jackson 5's tightly crafted Motown pop-soul and the youthful solo sides that showed how naturally Michael could carry a song on his own. The selections draw from the group's breakthrough run alongside early solo favourites such as Got to Be There and Ben, so you hear both the exuberant group chemistry and the softer, more intimate side of his voice.

For vinyl buyers, this edition also has a clear reason to exist beyond the tracklist. It is a limited Japan import on milky clear vinyl, issued with liner notes by Kei Ideta plus full lyrics and Japanese translations, giving a familiar catalogue a more collectible presentation. If you want one LP that gets back to the roots of Michael Jackson's recording career, this is an accessible and well-judged place to start.

Features

• LP, 180g, Clear Vinyl, Limited Edition, Japan Import
• Liner notes by Kei Ideta
• Includes full lyrics and Japanese translations

Reviews

• resulting in a concise, highly enjoyable collection of the group's basics. - AllMusic.com

Genre: Pop & Rock