Epic Records

“Immortal,” a new album featuring the music of the late pop legend Michael Jackson, will be released next month, Epic Records announced this morning.

The album will include more than 40 of Jackson’s original recordings, but they will be “re-designed and re-imaged,” according to a statement from Epic. To be released Nov. 21, the album will include mashups of Jackson’s hits as well as new, never-before-heard outtakes, including an alternate take on the Jackson 5's hit “ABC.”

“Immortal” will serve as the musical inspiration for “Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour,” a new Cirque du Soleil production.

The show will provide a “riveting fusion of Michael Jackson music, choreography and Cirque du Soleil creativity” to offer fans around the globe “a unique view into the spirit, passion and heart of the artistic genius who forever transformed global pop culture,” according to the record label’s release.

The North American leg of the show premiered yesterday in Canada and will come to the United States on Oct. 15.

“Immortal” — the album — will be released as both a deluxe double disc version and single disc. The album is helmed by Kevin Antunes, who said in the release that Jackson’s “musical essence” was the driving force behind the project’s creative energy.

“From the studio to the stage, there’s an undeniable integrity and resolute truth in Michael’s vocal performances that are highlighted in the ‘Immortal’ arrangement,” he said. “It was built with love and respect for Michael’s music, his family, and his millions of fans around the world.”

Jackson died June 25, 2009 after being administered a lethal dose of propofol, a powerful intravenous sedative.  His personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, in on trial in Los Angeles for  involuntary manslaughter for his alleged role in Jackson’s death.

The new album is being released by Epic in conjunction with estate of the late pop star.