Alt-rap is a unique genre that draws in a wide array of listeners, showcasing one of music’s most powerful abilities. “The music is a vehicle for the lyrics,” comments Doc Backer, an artist who transcends genres. His latest album is rooted in alt-rap, but his discography also includes folk and rock. Rejecting conventional music boundaries, his current project, “BABBEL ON!” is a bold experiment that enriches the alt-rap genre by introducing innovative narratives and sounds that evolve the niche in captivating ways.
Doc Backer boasts a diverse background and a remarkable catalog. Recently, he achieved number one on the iTunes dance chart through a collaboration with R3HAB on a remix of “Tequila” in September. “BABBEL ON!” is making waves on streaming platforms, landing spots on featured editorial playlists on Spotify and Apple Music. The story of the album even caught the attention of Rolling Stone.
With previous albums showcasing alt-rock and folk influences, Doc Backer’s venture into rap (alongside the EDM-infused “Tequila” remix) may have surprised some listeners. His commitment to experimentation and lyricism ranges from deeply serious to humorously unapologetic, and long-time fans appreciate connecting with his music on multiple levels.
“BABBEL ON!” And the “Tequila” Age
The year 2024 marks a significant shift for Doc Backer. His 2023 albums were primarily acoustic, featuring solid rhythms and instrumentation complemented by highly stylized lyrics and vocal performances. A close listen reveals the lyrical style that is distinctly his, though a reinvention of energy and musicality is necessary to truly navigate different genres. Doc Backer executes this transition seamlessly.
In live performances, Doc Backer embodies various characters, often portraying himself. “BABBEL ON!” retains elements of his signature style, despite being a fresh sound compared to his previous work. The leading track, “Don’t Wake Up,” showcases his character-driven lyrical style paired with deeper production, characterized by layered sounds and hard-hitting beats typical of the alt-rap genre.
Other tracks feature distinct vocal performances, giving the album an almost collaborative feel, as if multiple artists are presenting their versions of Doc Backer. This approach results in an album where each track stands out. The single “Tequila,” a dance-oriented track, along with its bass-heavy R3HAB remix, contributes to the impression that Doc Backer has ascended into a completely new phase of artistry.
What can we expect from his music in 2025? 2026? The future is uncertain. The variety and style present in Doc Backer’s “Tequila” era offer ample material to explore over the next decade, yet he could just as easily return to acoustic rock or create something entirely original without warning.
Connect and Discover What’s Next
If you appreciate alt-rap with an underground flair, this album might be your gateway to discovering Doc Backer and following his journey into future projects (including a collaboration with Gonjasufi and an eclectic indie/rock/folk album—what will that sound like?). For those intrigued by music that transcends genre boundaries and forges new paths, explore Doc Backer’s Instagram or TikTok pages. Delve into his discography and be ready for his next groundbreaking sound.
