Mixtape Review: Doechii – Alligator Bites Never Heal

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Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap 

Label: Top Dawg, Capitol Records 

Released: August 30, 2024 

Format: Mixtape 


"Alligator Bites Never Heal is a breath of fresh air that firmly distinguishes Doechii from her contemporaries."


The 26-year-old rapper and singer from Top Dawg Entertainment, in partnership with Capitol Records, has finally released one of the most anticipated projects of the year. Doechii first gained recognition in 2021 when her song "Yucky Blucky Fruitcake" went viral on TikTok, propelling her career and leading to her signing with TDE. She is now one of the most celebrated underground female MCs of her generation. With her new mixtape, Alligator Bites Never Heal, which often feels like a polished studio album, Doechii makes a bold statement that demands attention. The project is meticulously crafted, leaving one to question why she labeled it a mixtape. Through this work, Doechii sets a new benchmark for female rappers, showing she’s not focused on merely making hits but on creating provocative, timeless art. Alligator Bites... invites listeners to fully immerse themselves in her vibrant and creative world, offering music that has the power to shift perspectives. Doechii draws comparisons to a modern-day Missy Elliott, with her raw and unapologetic vocal delivery, echoing the legendary MC’s fearless style. 


I commend Doechii's beat selection on this project. The effort she put into crafting these songs is undeniable; it's clear that a great deal of creativity and raw edge was required to bring her vision to life. The opening track, "STANKA POOH," immediately sets the tone for the entire project. Doechii sounds entrenched and confident, while the instrumental provides ample space for her creative flair, resulting in one of the hardest intros I've heard from a female rapper. Although a Kendrick Lamar feature could elevate the track further, it's flawless and perfect as it stands.

The seamless transitions between tracks are also praiseworthy, and the brief skits scattered throughout make the project engaging and enjoyable. Doechii's punchy raps and vibrant persona enhance Alligator Bites...’s allure. For example, on "DENIAL IS A RIVER," the skit-like intro, which reprises throughout the song, adds a unique touch. Moreover, Doechii’s lyricism breathes life into the track. Her songwriting cuts deep and resonates with lines like, "I'm movin' so fast, no time to process/ And no, I'm not in a gang but I'm always on set." This track stands out as one of the most memorable moments of the project. The cohesion on Alligator Bites... is a standout feature, even though it lacks deeper introspection. The mixtape still benefits from Doechii's skill for creating songs that are easy to revisit. This is an exquisite body of work that aims to leave a lasting impact, and it does so effortlessly. With a runtime of 46 minutes, it offers a contemporary sound that feels nostalgic from the very first listen. It's easy to return to this project, as it has the unique ability to evoke the same initial impressions.



The tracklist is also commendable, with each song transitioning seamlessly into the next. The entire project feels like a diary transformed into a narrative by a female MC eager to share her story with the world. On "BOOM BAP," Doechii seeks to break free from societal expectations and defy industry norms, creating a thought-provoking and controversial moment. Here, she perfectly showcases her fierce and free-spirited persona. The following track, "NISSAN ALTIMA," finds Doechii rapping over a metallic, bass-heavy instrumental with a sharp rhythm, making it an ideal club anthem. Her delivery is intentional, deliberate, and crystal-clear, further demonstrating her versatility and command over her craft.


As Doechii makes her grand entrance into the music spotlight, she skillfully navigates unforeseen challenges, with the mixtape continuing to shine despite its slower moments. Alligator Bites... demonstrates to the world that Doechii is far from a one-dimensional artist—she is a multifaceted creative force. The artwork enhances the mixtape’s overall appeal, blending modern and retro elements to create a unique experience. Doechii excels in being multidimensional, and her keen sense of aesthetics is truly inspiring. She doesn’t just make music; she crafts it with care, dedication, and a labor of love, elevating her artistry beyond the ordinary.

Alligator Bites Never Heal is a breath of fresh air that firmly distinguishes Doechii from her contemporaries. Her carefree and rebellious energy positions her as one of the most exciting female rappers to watch. She is a promising talent, driven by an insatiable desire to fully unlock her vast potential.

Favourite Tracks: "DENIAL IS A RIVER," "FIREFLIES," "STANKA POOH," "WAIT," "BOOM BAP," "NISSAN ALTIMA"


Mixtape Score: 8.1/10


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