Emma Li

“Vie” demonstrates how genres like pop can still be distinctive and interesting when executed with passion and polish.

After the release of “Scarlet” in 2023, somewhat controversial for its aggressive lyricism and hard-hitting rap beats, “Vie” marks Doja Cat’s striking return to pop glam. The album isn’t just pop, though: “Vie” offers a blend of funk, R&B, hip-hop and more, accompanied by Doja’s signature rap verses. 

Each track on “Vie” incorporates a nostalgic ’80s sound with punchy instrumentals and bright synths — seen especially in the lead single “Jealous Type” — this is a creative choice that makes the album feel cohesive. Rather than returning to the more typical mainstream sound seen in tracks from Doja’s previous albums “Hot Pink” and “Planet Her,” she blends genres ranging from disco to hip-hop, including funky baselines and powerful drums. The end result is a dreamy sound that both draws from the past and offers a modern twist on the familiar. 

“Vie” demonstrates how genres like pop can still be distinctive and interesting when executed with passion and polish. I love how detailed and layered the instrumentals are: there’s never a dull moment sonically, with little touches of glimmery SFX and background vocals that add texture and polish to songs. 

Bright R&B tracks like “Gorgeous” highlight the shimmery and glamorous, while darker tracks like “AAAHH MEN!” — a scathing rap track with a beat sampled from the tense, pulsing “Knight Rider” (1982) theme song — bring a gritty edge to the album.

In her songs, Doja Cat offers vocals that fluctuate wildly in style and tone within the span of seconds: this is a unique but consistent attribute across her discography. This performance style adds additional texture and charm to the songs, her tones varying from smooth, silky vocals to passionate rap verses depending on the song’s mood.

My favorite track was “Lipstain.” I love how it opens with an initially dreamy, ethereal quality, leading to a nice surprise as the punchy bass suddenly kicks in. The mixing is satisfying, with glittery background sounds that evoke an air of glam. Additionally, the syncopation in the rhythms, contrasting Doja Cat’s dulcet singing, gives the song a groovy feel that keeps the listener hooked throughout.

Beyond the album’s sound, “Vie” dives into a variety of lyrical themes. Despite the bright melody of “Silly! Fun!,” its lyrics discuss lovebombing, impulsive romance and their consequences, with the song’s cheerful instrumentals juxtaposing the nuance of its underlying subject.

Songs like “Cards,” “AAAHH MEN!” and “Couples Therapy” explore the struggles of romance, while “Take Me Dancing” expresses a more optimistic side of falling in love. Meanwhile, “Gorgeous” steps away from romantic relationships to examine female empowerment and self-confidence.

Overall, Doja Cat’s “Vie” departs from the grittiness of “Scarlet,” returning to the bright pop from earlier in her career. “Vie” is packed with the same artistry, however, and its cheerful tunes don’t dampen her experimentation in the slightest. 

Even with some moments of sonic overlap in the album, I can’t be too upset — despite their auditory similarities, each track is packed with passion in the form of layered instrumentals, intricate sound design and thoughtful lyrics. Rather than trying to fit into the mainstream, “Vie”’s blending of genres, exploration of themes and well-rounded sound make it a genuine exploration of music as an art form. 

Favorite: lipstain

Least: stranger

Overall: 4.3/5