Rediscovering Michael Jackson's Thriller

Redefining pop music as we know it, Michael Jackson took the world by storm with his groundbreaking Thriller in 1982. In a sense probably still ahead of its time, Thriller sounds just about as amazing now as it did during its original release. From the atmospheric title track to the paranoid mega-hit "Billie Jean," this is an album for the ages. Melding pop, R&B, rock, jazz, and nearly any other genre that comes to mind, Michael almost did him himself a disservice in releasing such a superb album so early in his career. Outdoing Thriller would prove to be impossible.

Keep in mind that with Michael Jackson, every track is crafted for the dance floor, aside from the occasional humanitarian ballad or love son. Thriller is no exception. The hyperactive "Wanna Be Startin' Something" found new life in 2008 when it was rerecorded as a world dance track with Akon. And if "P.Y.T." doesn't get you up on your feet, you're probably dead.

When Michael does slow it down a bit, the result is not an ounce less satisfying. "Human Nature" is easily one of the best slow pop tracks in existence, with a sense of loving optimism only MJ could provide. We may never know what the track is actually about, but we know what it means. This is Michael's greatest musical accomplishment, providing songs that speak to the soul, whether on or off the dance floor.

Thriller can be purchased at any of the following retailers:

Best Buy (www.bestbuy.com)

Amazon (www.amazon.com)

Target (www.target.com)

Wal-Mart (www.walmart.com)

Borders (www.borders.com)