JackBoys 2: Cactus Jack’s Return to Form

Five years later, Travis Scott and company return with a tightly curated, sonically rich sequel that holds more weight than hype.

Five years since the original JACKBOYS project dropped, Travis Scott’s Cactus Jack crew has finally returned with JACKBOYS 2, a long-awaited compilation that's as ambitious as it is addictive. Clocking in at nearly 56 minutes across 17 tracks, it manages to feel both expansive and tight, a rarity for label compilations.

The album kicks off with a short atmospheric intro, "JB2 RADIO," instantly pulling you into the JACKBOYS' cinematic universe. Things rapidly shift into high gear with "CHAMPAIN & VACAY," featuring Travis Scott and Don Toliver alongside unexpected yet welcomed adlibs from Waka Flocka Flame. The track radiates luxury through lush melodies and silky production, setting an engaging, almost hypnotic vibe right out of the gate. Don Toliver’s smooth vocals complement Travis's energy perfectly, creating a captivating balance that immediately sets a high standard for the rest of the project.

Next up is the instantly catchy single, "2000 EXCURSION," featuring Travis Scott, Sheck Wes, and Don Toliver. Produced by Cardo Got Wings and Johnny Juliano, this track blends melodic flows and raw energy seamlessly. Sheck Wes particularly shines, delivering vivid bars with unmatched energy, evoking the gritty, energetic spirit of classic JACKBOYS tracks. The chemistry among the trio feels organic, further showcasing the strength of Cactus Jack’s collective dynamic

"CANT STOP" showcases another standout pairing, with Don Toliver, Wallie the Sensei, and Future joining forces. Wallie's clever delivery combines smoothly with Future’s unmistakable presence, resulting in an infectious track. The lush production, layered with dreamy, atmospheric beats, creates an ideal mood for late-night listening and highlights Future’s exceptional ability to elevate any collaboration he's part of. Future’s seasoned presence adds depth and charisma, making this track an undeniable highlight.

The singles laid a strong foundation, but deeper album cuts like "DUMBO," "KICK OUT," and the surprisingly engaging "CONTEST" also impress. Travis previewed "DUMBO" and "KICK OUT" at Coachella earlier this year, and they strongly deliver on their early promise. "DUMBO" stands out for its atmospheric beats crafted by Dilip and Otxhello, painting an immersive sonic landscape. Meanwhile, "KICK OUT," subtly enhanced by contributions from 21 Savage, brings that distinctive Cactus Jack energy to the forefront, showcasing Travis’s refined ear for engaging beats and compelling arrangements. "CONTEST" unexpectedly shines, with Travis and SoFaygo finding a compelling chemistry that elevates the track beyond initial expectations. SoFaygo's delivery, while typically inconsistent, meshes effectively here with Travis's sharp and engaging presence.

"FLORIDA FLOW" is another intriguing inclusion, featuring Kodak Black’s unique vocal tone paired effectively with Tay Keith’s hard-hitting production. This track offers a distinctive change of pace and proves that Travis isn’t afraid to experiment within the JACKBOYS framework.

Of course, there’s room to critique. Tracks like "PBT" notably feel disconnected from the album’s overall vibe, leaning too heavily into R&B and pop elements that don't align well with Travis’ strengths. Similarly, "ILMB" lacks the memorable punch present elsewhere on the project, feeling slightly underdeveloped compared to stronger tracks. "MM3" also stands out as a weaker moment, primarily due to SoFaygo’s performance, which doesn't quite match the energy or appeal of the album’s best moments.

Sonically, JACKBOYS 2 pushes boundaries just enough to stay fresh without alienating listeners. It consistently delivers impressive production from talented producers like Tay Keith, F1lthy, Cardo Got Wings, Dilip, and Otxhello, ensuring every track offers something engaging, even in its more experimental moments. Travis Scott’s skill as a curator shines throughout, balancing cohesive soundscapes with ambitious risks that largely pay off.

Ultimately, Travis Scott successfully curates a project that feels simultaneously polished and raw, packed with memorable features, thoughtful production choices, and endlessly replayable hooks. While a few tracks may not resonate as strongly, the highlights significantly overshadow the lows, demonstrating why Travis and his label have become key players in shaping modern hip-hop’s soundscape.

JACKBOYS 2 isn't just a sequel. It’s a bold step forward for Cactus Jack Records, solidifying its position as a creative powerhouse in modern hip-hop and reinforcing Travis Scott's reputation as a master curator and visionary artist.

Rating: 8.9/10

Must-Listens: "CHAMPAIN & VACAY," "2000 EXCURSION," "CANT STOP," "DUMBO," "CONTEST."

Skips (if you must): "MM3," "ILMB," "PBT."