By listening to this album (or mix-tape perhaps) numerous times now, I feel like I have been sucked into to another world.
A bit like turning up at a party where you know you really don’t belong, but there’s something that just makes you want to stay and be a part of it. You have no idea what anyone is talking about, the language and dialogue is alien and somewhat angry at times and yet you stay to embrace the energy and mood that surrounds you.
I know nothing of Doechii, and this genre in general, but I do know that if hip-hop/rap is to appeal to me it needs to sound like this. I think I prefer female artists over male in this genre – less shouty and more energetic. There are elements here of more mainstream tracks from yesteryear – thinking of Andre 3000/Outkast in particular (my knowledge is shallow) – but there is a new feeling here that Doechii is obviously keen to express. Slap heavy beats and booming basslines, experimental catchy hooks and melodic interludes that are both a relief and a surprise.
Definitely not an album to play at a family gathering, the no holds barred approach to the poetry is pretty eye opening!
The tracks are all pretty short, almost too short at times and maybe in future releases Doechii will treat us to a more fulfilling album of filled out sounds and less filler.
Standouts amongst the 20 odd tracks for me are the single Nissan Altima and Catfish – although I have no idea why!
7/10