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Before this year, I had never heard of Doechii. My first introduction to her was through “Balloon,” a track on Tyler, the Creator’s recent album Chromakopia. The moment I heard her feature, I was immediately drawn in, her voice, her talent, and most of all the playful energy she brought to the song.
That was enough for me to check out her own music, and that’s when I dove into her album Alligator Bites Never Heal. I wasn’t prepared for how good it would be.
First Impressions of the Album
While “Balloon” shows her playful side, Alligator Bites Never Heal is proof that Doechii is so much more than that. From start to finish, she delivers an insanely dynamic record, blending the authentic sounds of modern hip-hop and rap with nods to the energy of the 2000s. There are touches of pop, soul, and even experimental textures woven in, and it never feels forced, it feels natural, confident, and fully her own.
What stood out most to me is that she doesn’t just show versatility for the sake of it. Every track carries its own message, its own story, while still coming together as a complete body of work. Her vocals, lyrics, and style are all so unique and impressive that I was honestly surprised she wasn’t already more popular before this project.
Recognition and Success
Of course, her talent didn’t go unnoticed for long. Soon after the album’s release, Doechii wasn’t just nominated for multiple Grammys, she actually won Rap Album of the Year, becoming only the third Black woman to ever receive that award. That recognition feels like a true testament to the power of this record and her undeniable place in music right now.
My Track Ranking
Here’s how the songs landed for me:
- Nissan Altima — So insanely catchy, the kind of song you want to put on repeat.
- Boiled Peanuts — A nostalgic, comforting feel.
- Boom Bap — A playful rap track that’s pure fun.
- Catfish — Production perfectly matched to the message and lyrics.
- Beverly Hills — A refreshing switch that shows off her vocal range.
- Bullfrog
- Denial Is a River
- Slide
- Death Roll
- Huh!
- Wait
- Hide n Seek
- Skipp
- Stanka Pooh
- Bloom
- Fireflies
- GTFO
- Profit
(After the top five, my rankings are looser, but the variety here kept me engaged the whole time.)
My Honest Take
I would rate Alligator Bites Never Heal an 8.6/10. It’s dynamic, powerful, and deserving of the recognition it has already received. What impresses me most is how Doechii manages to sound playful, serious, nostalgic, and fresh all in one project. It’s rare to find an artist who can weave so many styles and still feel authentic in every one.
Adding this vinyl to my collection was a must, not just because of the music, but also because of the natural earthy tones in its design. It feels like a piece of art in every sense.
Final Thoughts
Doechii is an artist I hold a lot of respect for. Alligator Bites Never Heal isn’t just an album, it’s a statement, a reminder of what modern rap and hip-hop can sound like when someone puts their full self into it.
If you only know her from “Balloon,” do yourself a favor and listen to this album in full. It’s one of the most dynamic records I’ve heard in a while, and I’m excited to see where she goes from here.