Product Review

Although there have been countless compilations over the decades, The Very Best of the Jacksons could well be the most definitive. Split across two discs, disc one primarily features the early Mowtown days and the second, mainly their hits as the Jacksons (as opposed to Jackson 5) released on Epic. Often overshadowed by Michael's subsequent success as a solo artist, this anthology demonstrates why the Jacksons' perfect balance of pop and soul has endured when compared to one-time peers such as the Osmonds. The irresistible funk of 'ABC' and 'I Want You Back' are classics of the period as are the incredible ballads 'Got to Be There' and little Michael's ode to a loveable rodent, 'Ben'. Highlights of disc two are predominantly from their massive albums Destiny and Triumph, released in the late 1970s, early 1980s; 'Can You Feel it', 'Blame it on the Boogie' and 'Shake Your Body' to name but three. It was around this time that Michael began his adult solo career and The Very Best of the Jacksons appropriately ends with a live version of "Don't Stop Till You Get Enough" from MJ's Off the Wall. Michael may have gone on to eclipse his family but there can be little dispute that the Jacksons are one of the most important musical dynasties ever. Sony. 2004.