Can matrimony curdle the milkshake that brought all the boys to the yard? Thankfully, Kelis' sassy sexual confidence is as sweet as ever on her fourth album. ("I don't just like you/I like you like you," she sings on Like You. "Can we come together? You can fluff my feathers.")

Even with a ring on her finger, the 26-year-old Harlem-born chanteuse is equal parts domination fantasy boss bitch "Bossy", playful seductress "What's That Right There", devoted lover "Til' the Wheels Fall Off", and humble, introspective entertainer "Lil Star". Producers such as Will.I.Am of the Black Eyed Peas, Cee-Lo, and Raphael Saadiq support the sultriness of Kelis' deep, raspy vocals and sincere lyrics with tracks that range from raunchy buzzing synth to funk and rock guitar-driven soul.

The boys in the yard may be disappointed that Kelis got wifed up, but at least they can still throw on her CD, close their eyes, and fantasize about having Kelis for dessert.

Justin Monroe
Jerome Albertini
Aug/Sep 06