Pack Mentality by Dozie
Track of the week
Dozie
caught my attention recently with his single "Pack Mentality," and I must say, its short duration is a real highlight. Clocking in at just 1:40, the track keeps you wanting more, in my first listening run, I played it at least five times in a row. What struck me is how it gets better with each play, a testament to the appeal of well-structured, shorter songs that beg to be replayed. I've noticed that longer tunes, while satisfying initially, often struggle to keep listeners engaged throughout. It's already tough enough to get someone to stick with a full-length track, typically running 3-4 minutes. In contrast, "Pack Mentality" succeeds in holding attention with its quality, structure, and perfect looping. The song kicks off with a catchy, memorable chant enveloped in vibrant, atmospheric production. The classic combo of piano and bass guitar instrumentals, a hallmark of this style of Rap, sets a solid foundation. The simple drum pattern adds just the right amount of bass, and I appreciate the simplicity of the production coupled with the high-quality mix and master. It's refreshing when artists prioritize the quality of this step, given that it's not always glamorous but makes a world of difference in the final product.
Dozie's performance on the track is nothing short of fantastic. His standout voice, coupled with a memorable cadence and an iconic tonality, brings to mind the likes of J-Cole. While there are similarities, Dozie's unique twist sets his cadence apart. He openly cites J-Cole as an inspiration, along with influences from Burna Boy and Dave. The result is a blend of styles that feels like a perfect evolution, a unique fusion that is unmistakably Dozie's own. Notably diverse, Dozie's beat selection spans a wide range, as evident in his track "Phantom" featuring a house beat. The unconventional choice paid off, making it his biggest song to date. This hints at a potential direction for Dozie, one that's even more unique than "Pack Mentality" and with an ever-expanding market. I have to say though, “Pack Mentality” is Dozie’s best track. It’s that classic production mixed with the infectious melodic chant that made for an experience that is both fresh but also nostalgic. The shorter duration is a modern touch that will most definitely help the success and potential popularity of that track. I’m excited to see where Dozie goes next, I feel like there is a clear direction for him and that’s something not many artists can say they have.
Written by Maxim Bayarsky
