2024 saw the atmospheric rise of a number of new musical talents, such as Chappell Roan, Raye, Benson Boone and Doechii. The last of the aforementioned artists, Doechii, has flipped the music scene on its head. Doechii’s album “Alligator Bites Never Heal” stands out for its unique production, sound and lyrical depth, securing its Grammy win for Rap Album of the Year.
Doechii first gained attention with her 2020 EP “Oh the Places You’ll Go,” featuring the viral hit “Yucky Blucky Fruitcake.” Her 2022 song “she/her/black/b*tch” marked a shift from a bubbly aesthetic to a more personal, genre-building sound. “Alligator Bites Never Heal” is the result of Doechii perfecting her craft.
The album’s theme centers on processing rather than posturing. Doechii shows sober-minded confidence, addressing label pressures and imposter syndrome. Notable tracks include the “Nissan Almita,” “Denial Is a River” and “Stanka Pooh.”
“Stanka Pooh” opens with ominous synths and compelling percussion. Doechii’s vocal delivery isn’t high-energy, but there’s an undercurrent of intensity that adds depth to the lyrics. The song contemplates existential questions like “What if I choke on this Slurpee? What if I make it big?” before lightening the mood with a sharp couplet: “And if those the only fears that I’ll take to my grave / I’m pissing on you h**s living or dead.” This balance of humor and vulnerability is a signature of Doechii’s style.
“Denial Is a River” definitely deserves its the hype. The song runs through the main plot points in Docheii’s life over the past five years — catching a cheater, signing to Top Dawg Entertainment, diving deeper into a party lifestyle, and an ex coming back to cause havoc. These conflicts add to the fact that it is a conversation with her therapist counterpart helping her navigate her past. Her performance and production led to an undeniably catchy and stylish song.
“Nissian Altima” is the perfect single when it comes to for showcasing Doechii’s signature rap style. Doechii delivers rapid fire verses packed with witty wordplay and mesmerizing internal rhyme schemes.
Overall, “Alligator Bites Never Heal” is a bold statement of independence and a masterclass in modern rap. Doechii’s retells anecdotes by layering emotions in her songs. The wordplay shines from the very first track, and the innovative production level in the album puts it alongside the best. Doechii is now an essential part of the rap scene, and this album serves as the standard for what she will create next.
