A transformative artist who started her career producing songs on Soundcloud, Doja Cat released her new album “Vie” on Sept. 26. While “Amala,” her debut album, hardly moved critics and failed to chart, “Hot Pink” made an explosion in the pop rap industry. She continued this trend with “Planet Her,” which made everyone’s playlists during the height of quarantine. “Scarlet,” on the other hand, was criticized for being rap-centric and tied to Doja Cat’s controversial “satanic” behavior. Now we’re at “Vie.” In an Instagram post published on Sept. 23, Doja revealed that her album would focus on the theme of love, where “falling in love is putting trust in the hands of yourself and others.”
Brief Review of Each Song, Ranked
- “AAAHH MEN!”
Much more passionate in its rapping, accompanied by constant beat switches, Doja complains about the careless nature of men, especially when it comes to sexual gratification. It’s experimental while retaining her unique style, making it stand out from the rest.
- “Gorgeous”
This track emphasizes that while beautification can be harmful in perpetuating unrealistic standards, it can also increase confidence. This message is uplifting for women, which makes it especially meaningful.
- “Acts of Service”
This song starts off with a head-bopping rhythm, but transitions to staccato delivery of rap that leaves a strong impression. The chorus is catchy, and SZA’s backing vocals enhance the song’s quality. This track is the sister to Doja’s “Agora Hills.”
- “Silly! Fun!”
Lighthearted and adventurous, this track ironically labels serious things (such as having kids) as non-dramatic. The entire song is simple and bubbly; there’s a certain charm to that in itself.
- “Make It Up”
This song contains rap that is similar to that of “Planet Her’s” “Kiss Me More,” as well as satisfying ad libs. The fusion of Doja’s rapping and vocals are particularly smooth here, as she expresses her overwhelming eagerness to serve her romantic partner.
- “All Mine”
With lyrics that are more erotic, this track emphasizes her yearning and desire for intimacy. The rap style is distinct, but I find the chorus to be somewhat lacking in comparison to “Silly! Fun!”
- “Jealous Type”
This song stylistically resembles “Gorgeous” and is accompanied by a disco beat, but the message is not as powerful. Here, Doja appears to embody the role of a “toxic girlfriend.”
- “Take Me Dancing”
Featuring SZA, this song takes fans back to the “Planet Her” era, reminiscent of “Kiss Me More.” SZA’s smooth vocals blend perfectly with Doja’s light and airy ones. However, I had hoped to hear more from Doja.
- “Couples Therapy”
Much more rhythmically tame compared to “AAAHH MEN!” despite the profound theme leads to this song’s lower ranking. The catchy beat and the satisfying verses make up for this issue.
- “Stranger”
With a prominent drum beat, Doja blends her singing and rapping. Her partner may not be attractive to the public eye, but she likes him that way and finds his strangeness to be endearing. This song was difficult to place, but I found the rapping to be less catchy than that of “Couples Therapy.”
- “Cards”
This song creates a strong first impression for the album. Nevertheless, it is not strong enough to outdo the other songs’ choruses. The instrumentals are groovy, and it certainly does deliver on the pop element. The rap does not disappoint, but it’s not particularly distinctive.
- “Come Back”
With beautiful layering, ironically contrasting her feelings of hurt regarding betrayal, this song serves as a fitting ending for the album of love, but again, it’s not very memorable.
- “Lipstain”
This track is similar to “Take Me Dancing,” however, fans find fault in the rapping and its catchiness. As for me, I wish that there was something more done with the chorus.
- “Happy”
This track talks about wanting to stay positive amidst Doja’s partner’s cheating allegations. It’s a peaceful song that adds variety to the album, but it doesn’t stick out on its own.
- “One More Time”
Also upbeat and accompanied by angelic vocals, Doja talks about the necessity of persistence in a functional relationship. It’s fun and relatable to romance-seekers, but the echoing of the chorus decreases its enjoyability.
Overall, I would rate the album an 8/10, although it’s clear the second half is lacking compared to the first. While people might have been hoping for a “Planet Her” 2.0, I prefer “Vie.” Not only was it heavily inspired by musical elements from the 80s, but there were slick beats that I came to appreciate more with each listen. Despite it being overshadowed by Cardi B’s newest album, it has experimental elements that resonate deeply with her listeners.