Heaven Or Hell
When I listen to this I am immediately transported to early quarantine days, this album just has so much resonance with me due to the popularity of it on early TikTok. The anticipation around Don Toliver's debut album, "Heaven or Hell," was immense, and while the initial response might have been mixed, I found myself increasingly captivated by it over time. It's important to remember that Toliver is still relatively new to the scene, having launched his career just a couple of years ago. His first mixtape, "Donny Womack," showcased a vibrant side of Houston with a mix of exciting tracks that hinted at his potential, despite some rough edges. "Heaven or Hell" is a different beast altogether, leaning more towards R&B with fewer party bangers, which I think is fantastic. It shows another side of Toliver and highlights his versatility, proving he's not just about making club hits. He's still finding his sound, experimenting with his unique voice and flow to discover what truly works for him. While he might not be a "leader" like Travis Scott just yet, Toliver's introspective writing and the improved production quality, thanks to the Cactus Jack team and Mike Dean, showcase his growth. One of the most striking aspects of the album is its vocals. Toliver's auto-tune is a bit inconsistent, but when it lands, it's magical. Tracks like "Candy" and "No Idea" show how he can blend melody and auto-tune to create something special. The production, while sometimes hit or miss, offers a fascinating mix of global influences. I was particularly impressed by the blend of styles on "Candy," which feels both familiar and fresh. Lyrically, Toliver focuses on themes of partying, women, and drugs, which might sound generic, but he brings a certain charm to it. His choruses are where he truly shines, crafting catchy hooks that transport you to another world. Even if his verses aren't as memorable, they flow seamlessly into the choruses, maintaining a cohesive sound throughout the album. The features on the album add an interesting layer. Travis Scott's contribution feels more like a textured layer than a standout verse, blending perfectly with Toliver's highs. Kaash Paige's feature was a pleasant surprise, her vocals adding a new dimension to the track. Even Sheck Wes, who you'd think wouldn't fit with Toliver's style, delivers an unexpected and impressive performance. "Heaven or Hell" gives us a preview of what Toliver's career could look like, and I believe he's exactly the kind of artist who will continue to evolve and push the boundaries of auto-tune trap. While this album might not revolutionize the genre, it's a solid step forward, blending melody with auto-tune in a way that feels both innovative and accessible.
DON TOLIVER - Heaven Or Hell
RATING - 8.2/10
FAVORITE TRACKS - Wasted, Candy, Cardigan
GENRE - Hip Hop, Trap, Rnb