Houston rapper Don Toliver is revving up for his fifth studio album, OCTANE. The artist shared a short snippet of his new track, “Long Way To Calabasas”, via his alt-Instagram account @octanemountain, sending fans into excitement. Many called it a return to the melodic style Toliver showcased during his Heaven or Hell era.
The 43-second clip highlights Toliver’s signature ethereal vocals layered over psychedelic-trap production. Fans were quick to dissect the vulnerable lyrics:
“I think it’s you that I really care for… How do you feel alive by having it?”
The album seems to embrace a theme of exploration and presence, described in a leaked press bio as a project about “being present and enjoying the ride.”
Release Date Leak
Although fans expected a March release, a leak from Atlantic Records indicates OCTANE may drop January 23, 2026. The bio was briefly posted online before being removed, but the information points to the album arriving in just one week.
This timing aligns with Toliver’s upcoming performance at Rolling Loud Orlando 2026, where he will headline alongside Playboi Carti and NBA YoungBoy.
Album Details
- Production: Toliver is reportedly self-producing tracks including “ATM” and “Call Back.”
- Aesthetic: OCTANE draws inspiration from Group B rally racing and car culture, moving away from the biker-gang vibe of 2024’s Hardstone Psycho.
- Vibe: Recorded in a studio atop Mount Wilson in the San Gabriel Mountains, the album promises a “full-speed ride to the present.”
The “Octane Mountain” Strategy
Toliver is using a finsta-style marketing strategy, sharing grainy footage of rally cars, studio sessions, and snippets like “Long Way To Calabasas” on @octanemountain. The approach builds hype in a cult-like fashion ahead of the mainstream album announcement.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the full tracklist and more production details, which are expected to surface in the coming days.