Doechii @ Islington Assembly Hall (27.10.24)

Tampa’s own Doechii brought her Alligator Bites Never Heal tour to a packed house at Islington Assembly Hall on Sunday night, treating fans to a show as immersive as it was exhilarating. The venue pulsed with anticipation as DJ Miss Milan hit the decks, setting the stage with an infectious energy that had the crowd swaying, shouting, and primed for the main act. Her magnetic presence and high-energy set got everyone in the room buzzing, bridging perfectly into the night's main attraction.

When Doechii finally hit the stage, the room exploded. Sporting a sleek blazer paired with glasses, stockings, and suspenders, she exuded a powerful mix of sophistication and edge that mirrored her complex musical style. The stage itself was transformed into a swampy scene, complete with lush plants and an ominous “Beware of the Alligator” sign—setting the tone for a night that felt more like an experience than just a concert.

From the first beat, Doechii dove headfirst into her set, opening with crowd favorites like "Alter Ego" and the viral anthem "What It Is." Each track showcased her versatility, switching effortlessly between powerful rap verses and catchy hooks, her voice cutting through the room with the confidence of an artist who knows she’s on her way to becoming a major player. The energy only climbed higher when she performed "NISSAN ALTIMA," a fan-favorite that had the crowd chanting along to every line, feeding off her electrifying stage presence.

Doechii’s performance felt like a celebration of her rapid ascent in the rap world. She’s a fresh force, with a natural charisma that had the crowd under her spell from start to finish. If this show was any indication, Doechii is here to redefine boundaries and continue making waves as one of hip-hop’s most promising new powerhouses.

Pictures + Words: Nick Haill