I know I’m a little late on this seeing as Michael Jackson dominated the news a couple months ago. Now that things have calmed down on the Jackson front, I thought I’d feature his song “Smooth Criminal” covered by Alien Ant Farm for this week’s Covers Revue.
Of course we all know the impact and awesome-ness that was Michael Jackson, but in my opinion this is probably my least favorite of his singles. It’s a kick ass song but the energy he conveys in his voice doesn’t seem to be matched by the music. The electric bass line and soft synths in the background of the chorus lack that energy that is so prominently featured in Jackson’s voice. According to Wikipedia, this song barely even made it to his 1987 album, “Bad” (which also featured such singles as “Man in the Mirror” and “Bad”).
Perhaps this softer background beat was on purpose. Jackson’s voice is almost at a whisper for much of the song and I suppose too many layers or big beats would conceal his voice. At any rate, his voice is the only thing I like about this song. Well, that and the video is pretty fuckin’ awesome too! But what perfectly choreographed dance/fight scene isn’t!?
Now, when Alien Ant Farm got a hold of this song it became a whole other monster. I LOVE this rock band’s rendition of “Smooth Criminal.” The tempo is sped up and has a more rocking sound, which matches the energy that I think the original should’ve had. The distorted guitars totally make this song, along with the guitar solo during the bridge which was much more subdued in Jackson’s version. I also really love how lead singer Dryden Mitchell imitates Michael Jackson’s random noises in between lines. Overall, the song is much louder and faster and that’s what I imagined “Smooth Criminal” should’ve been. Jackson’s voice gave the song that vibe but the music didn’t match.
What makes this song though, is the video. It’s chock full of Michael Jackson references and is in such good fun. Though it pales in comparison to Jackson’s mini-movie (that he had a tendency of doing for music videos), Alien Ant Farm does their part to pay tribute while having tons of fun with it.
But don’t just take my word for it! Tons of people loved this song as well, as the charts show. “Smooth Criminal” sky-rocketed Alien Ant Farm into popularity by reaching #1 in Australian and New Zealand Singles charts, #3 on UK singles charts and #1 on American Modern Rock tracks. The song was featured in several video games and in the movie “American Pie 2.”
We haven’t heard much from Alien Ant Farm since, but this song will live on in my ipod forever!
Michael Jackson – “Smooth Criminal”
Alien Ant Farm – “Smooth Criminal“