Jessica Simpson

Pop star Jessica Simpson goes country with Do You Know, and don't be surprised that she gets it mostly right -- she's a Texas girl after all. What is surprising, however, is how much Simpson evokes shades of Faith Hill and Martina McBride on songs such as "Pray Out Loud," "Remember That" and "Sipping on History," all of which could be singles. And although the diva's tendency to over-sing renders some of the album a bit homogenous, there are a number of highlights here, including the title track, which was written specifically for Jessica by Dolly Parton, who also sings back-ups.

Her decade-long career has been filled with film flops, failed romances and albums that
vainly grasp for Christina's range and Britney's sex appeal (see "Irresistible," her homage to
Spears' vinyl pants). But digging into her country roots for Do You Know is the most
strong-footed move that Jessica Simpson — or her ever-present dad-ager, Joe — has ever
made. While she begs for a booty call on the twangy single "Come on Over," she l... More >