Don Toliver has done an excellent job of building hype over his short career. 2018 was huge for him as that was when he had his break out feature on “CAN'T SAY” on Travis Scott’s Astroworld. If you're anything like me, when you first Don come in you were left in awe by this unknown artist who was coming with so much energy, and sounded almost like a better singing version of Travis. The Texas native dropped a full length project titled Donny Womack the same year which had several solid tracks but it was clear that this was a less polished version of Toliver. That being said in 2019 he dropped a slew of singles that hinted that he may be working on another album, though nothing was confirmed. The year was capped off with the release of JACKBOYS. Don Toliver and the other signees of Travis’ record label teamed up for a project that he put his individual stamp on time and time again. Eyes were on him as he now had a co-sign from one of the biggest names in music currently.

Toliver occupies a very interesting space in music. His sound stems in part from his Houston counterpart Travis Scott, but there are other elements there. Heaven or Hell opens with the title track that is a perfect example of this sound and sets the mood for the project. The beat is electronic and spacey, as Toliver walks an ever so fine line between rapping and singing (really he's melodizing).

One of the album’s main strong suits is that it is very cohesive sonically. Not only that, but Toliver also stays consistent when it comes to the subject matter on this project. Many of the tracks create the vibe of either before, after or during a party, and it almost seems as if the entire album could be taking place over the course of one crazy, drug-filled night. The early tracks on the album set that tone and have listeners feeling like they may be off something just from production, and that is what makes this album perfect for any party setting.

Deeper cuts from the album like “Candy” and “Company” are enjoyable because of how they evolve as the track progresses. The guitar solo in the background of “Candy” as it plays out into a beautifully sung acapella closing by Toliver might have been one of the best moments on the whole project. This is the strongest aspect of Heaven or Hell as well as most of Don Toliver's music. As each song continues Don sounds more comfortable. He is able to create great moments with a particular flow he catches, or how his voice echoes on a chorus, or just the general energy he creates when his presence occupies a song. Once he finds a way to grab you though it is difficult not to ride the wave for the remainder of the track.

When it comes to standouts from the album a clear pick that has to be talked about is “Euphoria”. It is perfectly placed as the second song and immediately grabs the listener's attention. The piano and vocals in the background are dark and moody to compliment the rest of the beautiful production. Kaash Paige might have actually had the most impressive performance on the song as she croons about her fake friendships and old relationships that she is leaving behind in her success. Travis and Don rap about the women they've hurt in their pursuit of euphoria from drugs and money. This is one of those songs that grabs you and holds onto you for the entire time it is playing then once it ends you are left wanting to press rewind.

Something that can’t be ignored about the album is not only the fact that 3 out of 12 songs were already released before this. This is worth mentioning because “Can’t Feel My Legs”, “Had Enough”, and “No Idea” also happen to be some of the high points on Heaven or Hell. You have to wonder if the already positive reception of the album wouldn't be heightened if this was the first time these were heard. It does make sense why these would be the singles on the one hand, as these are also the songs that would definitely be more in the vein of a traditional club banger or party hit. They are upbeat, high energy, and some of the most infectious music he has ever created. All of these are excellent songs in any context.

Heaven or Hell was a really good debut for Don Toliver. He seems to be trending in the right direction with everything he does. It is invaluable to have a good group of people around you at this time in the music industry. Not only is JACKBOYS a great image for Toliver to be associated with, but it will also put him in a space with other creatives who will hopefully force him to push his boundaries and produce his best work. Toliver has a very bright future in the industry and Heaven or Hell did nothing but further prove that to be true.

Favorite Tracks

Euphoria

Can't Feel My Legs (Feat. Travis Scott & Kaash Paige)

Company

Rating: 8

Listen to Heaven or Hell here:

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