San Antonio Express-News

It would be easy to try to slam-dunk another crossover hit on the heels of "It's Five O'Clock Somewhere," Jackson's pairing with Jimmy Buffett.

But with his 12th studio album, he continues to dance with the one who brung 'im — solid, traditional country steeped in heartache.

Unlike previous albums, though, "What I Do" has only two revved-up tunes. On this go-round, Jackson piles on the ballads, but what ballads.

"Monday Morning Church" is one of the best songs of the year, with a man questioning his faith — and the reason to go on — after his woman dies.

The heartfelt "You Don't Have to Paint Me a Picture" follows a guy's realization that their strong love is now a lost love.

"Too Much of a Good Thing," currently No. 7 on the Billboard country chart, is a simple, sweet love song that bursts with optimism.

While avoiding social commentary such as "Remember When," he still combines a winning blend of pathos and wit, such as "If French Fries Were Fat Free," a lighthearted look at a broken heart.

The only hard-charging songs are "The Talkin' Song Repair Blues," about a mechanic and a songwriter trading tips, and "Burnin' the Honky Tonks Down," a red-hot send-up about a woman with a match and a mission.

Jackson accomplished his mission — a standout album by the purest star in country music.

—John Goodspeed