Doja Cat, already a highly acclaimed musician, continues to consistently release music at an impressive pace. With her fifth album, she embraces thematic depth more than ever. The buildup to the album was captivating and purposeful. Dressed in outfits reminiscent of Grace Jones, complete with a sharp afro and striking shoulder pads, Doja Cat visually presented the ‘Vie’ phase.
From the album's first track, ‘Cards,’ it’s evident that we are embarking on a sonic journey back to the 80s. Dark and sultry from the start, Doja Cat is provocative on the hook and articulate in her verses. The pre-released single ‘Jealous Type’ appears early on, showcasing a synth-driven sound. She combines an ethereal chorus with intense lyrics in the verses, embodying the green-eyed monster she refers to. During the 2025 VMAs, she performed it live, igniting the stage with sharp choreography and vibrant performance energy, making it clear why this track stands out.
As we delve deeper into the album, several notable tracks emerge. ‘AAAHH Men’ radiates euphoria, filled with multiple layers. It features boastful raps, a cheerleader-style hook, and a playful rawness characteristic of Doja. ‘Gorgeous’ is another standout track, revealing deeper meanings beneath its surface.
Songs like ‘Couples Therapy’ and ‘All Mine’ explore different styles of 80s new jack soul vibes. Whiskey-toned falsettos weave through many hooks on ‘Vie,’ which feels like a blend of its two predecessors—merging the rap energy of ‘Scarlet’ and the pop essence of ‘Planet Her.’
Each track sonically remains cohesive while exploring specific nuances. For instance, ‘Lipstick’ features a video game-inspired instrumental and is the first to include French, honoring the album title. Other noteworthy tracks include ‘Silly! Fun!’ and ‘Acts of Service,’ the latter resembling a playful, internet-savvy love story. Meanwhile, ‘Silly! Fun!’ captures classic Doja Cat energy through her rapping, alongside a second French inclusion, ‘Happy,’ a lively choice for the hopeful.
Overall, ‘Vie’ represents many elements, primarily serving as Doja Cat’s 90s-inspired tribute to 80s music. It incorporates a diverse mix of R&B, pop, funk, New Jack Swing, and hip-hop, blending them as elements to give each part its distinct flavor. Lyrically, she adeptly portrays the complexities of love, though it doesn't stray far from her previous storytelling.
Still, Doja’s remarkable ability to seamlessly transition between different styles, and at a high level, highlights her undeniable star power. The visual aspects accompanying this project effectively reinforce the theme, and even if this album isn’t to your preference, her talent remains undeniable.
8/10
Words: Shanté Collier-McDermott
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Having earned numerous awards, Doja Cat consistently impresses with her music releases. With the launch of her fifth album, she displays a greater thematic focus.