Jessica Simpson

Eyebrows may be raised among the snobby Grand Ole Opry set and in the country music scene due to the fact that reformed pop tart Jessica Simpson has released a country album—the surprisingly pleasing Do You Know? However, let's study some forgotten facts before rushing to judgement, shall we?

Shania Twain is the reigning pop-country queen, and she's Canadian. Keith Urban is from New Zealand/Australia, yet he makes some beloved country records. Yes, those countries have rugged terrain and hometown qualities perfect for country songs, but let's not forget, Miss Simpson was born and raised in Texas, so she's a country gal at heart which certainly affords her the audacity as well as the right to make an American country crossover album.

And guess what? Do You Know? is well-done! If it's good enough for country legend and fellow buxom blonde Dolly Parton to lend her honeyed pipes to the title track, then it's worth you giving it a chance! The ladies' duet is sweet without being saccharine, thanks to the twangy guitar tone, which rears its head several times on the album. "Come on Over" is a romantic, slice-of-life ditty with a plucky riff that was undoubtedly reared on a country back road! Simpson yanks herself up by her cowboy-boot straps—and no, that's not a reference to her current flame, Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo—and gives it her all. Do You Know? isn't a honky tonk album fit for the local watering hole nor is it disposable and cheesy pop-country that waxes about the "tear in your beer." It's a little more polished, rightfully so, since Simpson isn't exactly known as a rough rider! "Remember That" is a relatable ballad and "Pray Out Loud" is a soft and sweet number that lets Simpson's voice assert its strength. "You're My Sunday" is a touching, tender ode to her beloved, while "Still Beautiful" is an uplifting, empowered, countrified anthem that'll have you tipping that ten-gallon hat!

Trying her hand at country was a risk for Simpson, but she handled it with guts and courage, and she comes out a winner. Do You Know? may stand the test of time as Simpson's most memorable, commercially viable effort.

— Amy Sciarretto
09.10.08