Let’s talk about Don Toliver’s fifth studio album, OCTANE. I’ve had this project on repeat all year, & by the end of 2026, it’ll be in my Spotify Wrapped for sure.
Don Toliver is my personal favorite artist on the Cactus Jack roster (alongside Travis Scott, of course). He always delivers quality tracks, typically in a large quantity, which is usually off-putting for me, but not when it comes to him.
Anyway, OCTANE is my favorite album he’s released since Heaven or Hell (his first studio album). The production is very impressive, & the amount of producers & engineers he had locked in, including himself, is outstanding. It was a team effort, & you can tell.
Travis Scott was an executive producer on the album (per usual), alongside 206Derek, who produced a significant amount of tracks on the record. Honorable mentions are Bnyx, Da Honorable C.N.O.T.E., Rio Leyva, FnZ, Jahaan Sweet, Jaasu, Dylan Wiggins, Oh Ross, Prince 85, BBYKOBE, & Bangs.
Again… It was a group effort.
The Houston artist talks a lot about his significant other (Kali Uchis) on pretty much every track. You can really feel the love he has for her. He questions how he got so lucky with her, often reflecting on the sexual tension that could be sliced with a scythe.
He takes this opportunity to open up about how he feels happiness by simply falling in love & that it’s a very powerful feeling, often comparing it to drugs.
The sound of this project is mostly trap-inspired, but there’s a softness to it that gives it its own unique flavor.
“OPPOSITE” is my favorite track because it’s super hype. The soft stuff is great too, but Don Toliver is very talented, & I wish we got more of the hype shit he’s known for.
At this point, I just expect an artist on Cactus Jack to be a rager. It’s their whole niche. Although, I suppose it’s important to branch out and do your own thing as well.
There were some notable features on the album: Travis Scott, Yeat, Rema, SahBabii, & Teezo Touchdown. Teezo gave the best performance, like he does on every track I’ve heard him on. He made the song feel more vibrant & colorful.
I digress.
Overall, I was happy with the project, & I keep finding myself listening to it over & over when I’m trying to relax. Mostly when I’m writing. It’s great for multitasking.
My personal rating is an 8.5/10, & that’s just because it wasn’t a heavy hitter.
Was it bad though?
NO.
I still enjoyed it, & I’m sure you will as well. Although, if you’re expecting a typical Cactus Jack release, you’re going to be very disappointed.
Give it a chance. You might be pleasantly surprised if you’re interested in the R&B genre.
