“Vie” Album Review

On Sept. 26, Doja Cat dropped her fifth studio album, “Vie.” The album steers away from the tone of her previous release, “Scarlet,” which was more rap-centered and fiery. “Vie” marks a return to her pop roots displayed in her earlier albums.

The album embraces the energy of 1980s pop with a funky R&B feel. The opening track, “Cards,” begins with a saxophone in the background, setting the scene for a jazzy pop record. A strong start, it establishes the musical tone for the rest of the album.

“Jealous Type,” a single that preceded the release, appears as the second track. An upbeat pop song, “Jealous Type” feels like a natural hit.

Songs such as “AAAHH MEN!” showcase Doja’s undeniable rap skills. “AAAHH MEN!” stands out thanks to its distinct sound, especially compared to the rest of the album, which at times blends together.

“Gorgeous” is a playful, light track reminiscent of Doja’s earlier pop work. The song highlights the importance of being confident in your beauty and uplifting other women.

Doja reunites with SZA on “Take Me Dancing.” Catchy and bubbly, the track is another standout.

“Make It Up” appears later in the album, but its lyrics become repetitive as the song progresses. The repeated line “Can I make it up to you” makes the track feel somewhat unoriginal.

“One More Time” picks up the album’s energy with a faster-paced, lively feel, offering a nice break from the slower songs that precede it.

The album closes with “Come Back,” a light, fun pop song featuring prominent saxophone instrumentals—mirroring the opener and providing a sense of closure.

Most of the standout tracks appear toward the beginning of the album. Distributing them more evenly could have improved the overall pacing.

The album maintains a consistent style throughout, blending jazzy and graceful lyrics with rap verses and similar instrumentals. While well-produced, the lack of variety makes it feel somewhat repetitive.

“Vie” is an enjoyable listen, but its repetitive nature prevents many songs from standing out as strong hits. The tracks are catchy, but few offer much depth. The concept is distinct from her past work, but not quite enough to make it an instant classic.

It’s fair to say that Doja Cat has taken many creative turns throughout her career. “Vie” strikes a balance between her multiple eras—a mix of her pop past and the rap-forward sound of “Scarlet.”

Rating: 6/10
Reviewer’s favorite song: “Jealous Type”
Reviewer’s least favorite song: “Acts of Service”

Lucy Bielecki is a third-year majoring in telecommunications. To contact her, email lpb5533@psu.edu.