Doja Cat’s Latest album “Vie”: A New Perspective on Existence and Affection
Could this be yet another online prank? Doja cat’s newest album, “Vie”—which means “life” in French—boasts an eye-catching cover art (altered at the last minute) featuring the 29-year-old artist from Los Angeles surrounded by roses, radiating a sense of warmth. Over the past few years, Doja has carved out her niche as a bold figure in pop music: she encourages her loyal followers to “put down their devices, find employment, and assist their parents at home,” frequently enough distancing herself from her own chart-topping tracks before they even reach their peak popularity. Her 2023 project “Scarlet” marked a significant departure from her pop origins wiht it’s sharp and unapologetic tone.
A Nostalgic Return to Pop with a Unique Spin
There is some reason to believe that the led single from “Vie,” titled “Jealous Form,” which features sleek cinematic sounds reminiscent of ’80s pop—a genre Doja previously embraced without hesitation—might be somewhat misleading.Though, this perception isn’t entirely accurate; this fifth album sees her revisiting the sweet soundscapes of earlier works like “Hot Pink” (2019) and “Planet Her” (2021). This time around, it seems she has discovered an intriguing equilibrium between the polished aesthetics she often critiques while still channeling the fiery essence that defined her work on “Scarlet.”
The interplay between these contrasting elements in Doja’s music is genuinely captivating. The track “AAAHH MEN!” offers a playful twist on Chic’s classic hit “Le Freak,” featuring an exaggeratedly sleazy groove that perfectly complements Doja’s internal struggle about whether to invite someone over or roast them rather. It’s challenging to determine where she stands as she raps lines like “I have too much tolerance / You’re ugly yet stunning / And if I had more common sense / I’d take my leave,” clearly enjoying this playful banter.
A Sweet Yet Intricate Journey Through Love
A softer side emerges in Doja’s approach despite echoes of earlier hits like “Say So.” In tracks such as “Silly! Fun!”, she exuberantly conveys feelings associated with first love over dreamy production reminiscent of Chappell Roan’s style. When singing phrases like “I’m in love” or suggesting they act young again, each line is accompanied by ethereal backing vocals—as if she’s hesitant to express these emotions directly—a clever artistic choice indeed.Even though Doja admits this may not be music she’d typically enjoy herself,she’s fully committed to exploring these themes while delivering witty one-liners such as “He isn’t after money / I told him ‘Come enjoy being rich.’” (See track seven titled All Mine.)
The Dilemma of identity Transformation
The central theme appears to revolve around whether one can genuinely alter their core identity—a motif intricately woven throughout both musically and lyrically across “Vie.” Demonstrating wisdom beyond her years, Doja refrains from providing definitive answers; instead concluding with the poignant track “Come Back.” This song serves as an introspective reflection post-breakup that shares similarities with donna Lewis’ classic hit “I Love You Always Forever.” She candidly raps about disillusionment saying things like, “I’m glad I’m not who you hoped I’d be / If we keep doing this dance where you hold my doors / And take my gains while keeping me wanting more / I don’t think it will ever make up for what I’ve lost.” Each line drips with exhaustion yet sincerity—there are no tricks here; just heartfelt reflections set against sparkling production so sweet it could make even Carly Rae Jepsen blush. While perhaps its true that leopards can’t change their spots,Doja Cat may very well evolve into something entirely new.