An XXL-sanctioned mixtape hosted by DJ Ill Will and DJ Rockstar, Higher Learning Vol. 2 finds upcoming hipster-rap star Fashawn doing his thing over tracks produced by JRB, Phonix, Hecktik, Necronan Beats, and Javelin. Unconcerned with gangster posturing or D-boy tales from the trap, most tracks here center on more real-life issues like going to school, the ups and down of romantic entanglements, and staying dipped in fresh clothes. Mixed with interludes from the 1995 Ice Cube flick Higher Learning, we also get solid guest spots from Common and John Legend ("Strange Fruit"), J. Cole ("Big Dreams," "Relaxation"), and GLC ("Weed Nap"). Another strong effort from the impressive rookie, this should hold over his growing fanbase until his next project. Don't miss "In the Rain," "Eastside Party," and the Doggystyle revamp "For the G's."