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Writer's pictureErnessa S.

Review of Doechii's 'Alligator Bites Never Heal'

I hope y’all were ready for the Swamp Princess the way I was; Doechii has been doing some black ass, fly ass, dope ass s--t.


Doechii's album cover for Alligator Bites Never Heal.
Album cover for Doechii's 'Alligator Bites Never Heal'.

I don’t listen to Doechii often but I couldn’t help but witness the popularity surrounding her new music videos and sounds, especially to "BOOM BAP" and  "NISSAN ALTIMA".


"Alligator Bites Never Heal" was released a little more than a week ago, so you know I had to hop on and talk about this, as the artist definitely had some things to get off her chest. 



This mixtape felt like the first sip of an ice cold Hennessy lemonade; this woman was not only spitting bars but there was also a great deal of singing on this as well, which I very much appreciate.


She comes in swinging with "STANKA POOH" as she spits her concerns for the future but at the same time explains how well she’s doing and while there’s many out here saying she ain’t s--t to worry about -- she goes on to say "well, who’s the one who really should be worried about s--t here?"


Already, a tone has been set. This woman is harder than combing through dried 4C hair. I also wanna mention how the production fits the feeling of a swamp-type environment. Does it make sense that the mixtape feels dark green? It feels "swampy" for lack of better terminology.


Doechii smiling while holding an alligator.

"BULLFROG" and "BOILED PEANUTS" explains what I’m trying to say, in terms of the production and how while the instrumentals feels reminiscent of late '90s rap, the focus on certain bass and choice of instruments is matched perfectly with the theme that’s trying to be brought across here.


"DENIAL RIVER" is interesting because it tells us the story of  how she went into rapping and how her career started, It’s funny because there’s some vulnerability here about some trauma, but there's also some comedic relief as the song is a conversation. There’s a back-and-forth about her potential use of drugs, as she denies the claims of her use but also speaks on how its use in the industry makes it more fun and engaging. Overall, it was a nice breakdown to experience during the listening of the tape.


Man, I can go into each song here; what a mixtape to listen to. Another aspect of the tape I really enjoyed is the Kendrick Lamar influence I’m hearing. I hear this influence on "HIDE N SEEK". It feels similar to some s--t Kendrick Lamar would’ve done on "good kid, m.A.A.d city".



Doechii said earlier in the month that she wants a Kendrick Lamar collab, but also stated that she wasn't ready.

This is a mixtape you can put on while you’re cruising with your girls; another rap collection to add to the list. Yes, anyone can listen to this, but you can tell this was meant to resonate with black women. Tracks such as "BOOM BAP" and "NISSAN ALTIMA" made that clear. Those tracks have made black women stand up faster than when it’s time to move into the hair drying chair at the salon. 

 

I know I mentioned how there’s a great deal of singing on here, making this tape a beautiful mix; maybe there’s some iced tea in that Hennessy lemonade too.


We hear her giving us melodic breaks with songs such as "SLIDE", "FIREFLIES","BEVERLY HILLS", "WAIT", and more. The attention to detail In production, advertising and the lyricism speaks volume to her capability to rap and the recognition she deserves as she creates a bigger presence in the  music industry. From making tracks such as "Alter Ego" and "Rocket", I present to you a very diverse and talented woman; this review was necessary.


I hope this piece was able to bring light to the art and influence she’s creating and encouraged you all to recognize the details. I’m excited and curious to see the direction of her music and what she will do next.


Steve Irwin would be proud; at least I think he would be. 


Doechii at the 2024 Governor's Ball.
Doechii at the 2024 Governor's Ball. SOURCE: GETTY IMAGES

Rate: 8.6/10

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