Controversy surrounded Dec. 14, as Michael Jackson’s latest CD, Michael, was released. The posthumous album is the first of nine albums to be released from the deceased pop icon. Oprah’s Dec. 6 show hosted the Cascio family as their secret relationship with Jackson was revealed. Eddie Cascio helped record some of the songs featured on Jackson’s new album, assuring the vocals heard are indeed Michael’s.

“I can tell you that it is Michael’s voice. He recorded right there in my basement. It was a home studio…I was there pushing the buttons. He was right there directing,” Eddie said on the show.

The rumors swirling amidst the album’s release spoke of the autotuned and enhanced vocals that were featured. Long time producer and friend to Jackson, Teddy Riley, finished some of the new tracks and verified that Jackson was the one singing them.

Regardless of the quality or tone, this is Michael Jackson.

Artists including Akon, 50 Cent and Lenny Kravitz are all featured on the album as well.

This album definitely has some good tunes on it, however, it is another MJ album. His past two albums like Invincible have fallen under the radar and received little, to no attention.

It is not dull by any means, but not exactly something you’ll be singing all day. Although, the duets with other artists are more contemporary and more relatable to this crunk generation.

Many of the songs like, Best of Joy and (I Like) The Way You Love Me, are full of emotional lyrics and expression.

Songs like Behind the Mask and (I Can’t Make It) Another Day are definitely head-bobbing tunes that are worthy of being placed in the public spotlight.

Overall, the album is nothing to be glanced over and pushed to the side. With a wide range of sounds and tempos, Michael Jackson has put together an album for all the Dirty Diana and Thriller lovers out there.