Album by ericdoa
On the surface, this sounds like the kind of album that should live comfortably in pop, dance music, hip-hop, and electronic music. The beats are huge. The hooks arrive one after another. There are moments that feel tailor-made for clubs or summer playlists.
But beneath all of that energy sits something much more vulnerable.
Instead of celebrating money, success, or sexual conquests, DOA spends much of its time wrestling with failed relationships, self-destructive impulses, mental health, and the uneasy realization that sometimes we knowingly walk straight back into situations that hurt us.
“The Cake Is a Lie” immediately establishes that tension. Built around infectious melodies, it explores the false promises we tell ourselves, whether that’s believing toxic relationships will somehow work out differently this time or convincing ourselves happiness is waiting just around the corner. It’s remarkably introspective for something this catchy.
“Danceinwithsomebawdy” feels like a genuine dance-floor anthem, yet underneath sits another story of betrayal and heartbreak. That contradiction becomes one of the album’s defining strengths. The brighter the music becomes, the heavier the emotional baggage often feels.
“Bigassbearman” slows things down without losing the groove. There’s a real smoothness to the production, while the lyrics acknowledge a relationship where neither person is innocent and neither seems quite ready to walk away.
“Kickstand” provides a welcome burst of swagger. The spring-loaded synth line gives the track a restless energy that makes it feel almost cathartic after several emotionally heavy songs. “Arm and a Leg” perfectly captures the album’s push-and-pull. The guitars nudge the song toward alternative rock while the beat keeps it rooted in dance-pop.
“lastjune” begins with an intimate R&B vibe before exploding into distorted electronics, mirroring someone who intellectually knows it’s time to move on but emotionally can’t let go.
“Imcoolimgoodimstraight” may have one of the album’s most irresistible grooves, yet it feels strangely anxious. While everyone else seems to be dancing, the narrator is already imagining how things will eventually fall apart. “Crisis Actor” feels like the emotional comedown. The energy fades, leaving behind a more direct confrontations with depression.
“Sweet Tooth” closes the record by hinting that maybe nothing has really changed. On the surface it sounds optimistic, but the imagery suggests someone willingly stepping back into another cycle they already know won’t end well. Like sugar, the rush feels wonderful while it lasts. But the crash is sure to follow.
This is an album full of pop hooks and undeniable energy, yet it consistently carries the emotional weight of an indie rock record.
Most dance-pop albums celebrate romance. This one seems more interested in examining why we keep making the same mistakes when it comes to relationships. That gives DOA a surprising amount of depth, and it’s what kept pulling me back for another listen.
Verdict: Solid
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