Charlie Cruz

A&E 9/17/24 11:52pm

Review: Ten years later, “Days Before Rodeo” endures while Travis Scott remains static

By Charlie Cruz

Ten years after its release, “Days Before Rodeo” remains one of Travis Scott’s most beloved projects — a raw, energetic mixtape that laid the foundation for his rise to stardom. Released on SoundCloud in 2014, it featured impressive collaborations with the likes of Young Thug, The 1975, and Big Sean, and firmly established  Travis as a force in hip-hop. 

A&E 9/10/24 11:19pm

‘Alligator Bites Never Heal’ marks Doechii as the new queen of hip-hop

By Charlie Cruz

The self-proclaimed “new hip-hop Madonna” returns with a sonically diverse and beautiful mixtape; unfortunately, while she proves her talent, her path toward stardom remains unclear. Jaylah Ji’mya Hickmon, or Doechii, has been on the radar of hip-hop critics since she joined Top Dawg Entertainment in 2021, thanks to her endless potential as a rapper. Oldheads have drawn comparisons to Missy Elliott, while younger fans see shades of Kendrick Lamar and SZA — her talent and versatility are undeniable. But what remains uncertain is her direction: Will she continue down the path of a TikTok hit-maker, or is she poised to leave behind a lasting hip-hop legacy? Her latest mixtape, “Alligator Bites Never Heal,” brimming with introspective and radio-ready tracks, explores her identity as she grapples with her place in the industry.