Monday 31st March 2014 by Andrew Trendell | Photos by Press

Tags: Michael Jackson

A new collection of previously unheard Michael Jackson material is set to be released in May, it has been announced. 

Michael Jackson's official website revealed today that Xscape, will feature 8 'new' tracks from the King Of Pop, and be released on 13 May through Epic Records. 

A statement reads that Timbaland, along with Rodney Jerkins, Stargate, Jerome “Jroc” Harmon, and John McClain, added a “fresh, contemporary sound that retains Jackson’s essence and integrity.”

XSCAPE has been  executive produced by Epic Records Chairman and CEO L.A. Reid - WHO 'mined' the estate of Jackson’s archives, with unlimited access to four decades of material on which Jackson had completed his vocals.

Watch the trailer for Xscape below

A spokesman said: "Reid then teamed up top producers to 'contemporize' the songs while retaining Jackson’s essence and integrity, creating the best music you’ve never heard."

 Reid added: "Modern music and artistry would look and sound completely different if not for the groundbreaking contributions Michael Jackson gifted to the world. Michael left behind some musical performances that we take great pride in presenting through the vision of music producers that he either worked directly with or expressed strong desire to work with.

"We are extremely proud and honored to present this music to the world."

The album will also be available in a deluxe edition featuring the sourced Michael Jackson recordings in their original form. The full tracklist will be revealed in the coming weeks. 

Below: 10 modern artists inspired by the King Of Pop