[New releases]Michael Jackson. "Thriller 25"

“Thriller 25,” the new re-release of the 1982 original, features all the classics that so thrilled the King of Pop’s fans, and then some. The supplementary DVD of music videos isn’t noteworthy, but the new remixes feature today’s reigning hip-hop royalty.
To their credit, these current artists bring their fair share to the table: The new “The Girl is Mine,” featuring will.i.am, is unrecognizable from its lilting, easy-listening original with Paul McCartney. The Black Eyed Peas’ rapper injects catchy beats and production, but the former Beatle still makes a far more convincing case as to why he’s a better lover.
Jackson purists may be opposed to Kanye West’s molasses-paced version of “Billie Jean,” but his slick backing is undeniably danceable. Unfortunately, the talented rapper limits his usual loquacity to just a few grunts. By far the best is Akon’s “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’.” It starts out a slow jam, then kicks into high gear with the classic trilling refrain. As a whole, these remixes, while not lyrically enthralling, update Thriller’s tracks for today’s club scene. I’d hit the floor for them. By Hannah Bae