Does Nicki Minaj's 'Roman Reloaded' Album Live Up to the Hype?

March 29, 2012 - 8:53 pm by VIBE

As if all eyes aren’t already on Nicki Minaj—all ears have also shifted toward the Queen Barbie. Last night (March 28), Nicki’s upcoming sophomore album, Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded, leaked in its entirety. 19 full tracks featuring guest verses from the likes of Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Drake, Chris Brown, Nas, Cam’Ron, and more flooded Twitter timelines with mixed reactions.

Though, the LP won’t officially be released to retailers until next Tuesday (April 3), VIBE gave the Barbz early leak a preview while we worked through our day. After one listen, check out our initial reaction to all 19 tracks.

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Roman Reloaded

"Roman Holiday"

Not the best way to kick off an album. Is it opera-hop? It's basically Roman going mad a.k.a an excuse for Nicki to be all over the place. Good news: She's still funny? --"I am the ultimate Svengali. You bitches can't even spell that."

"Come On A Cone"

Instant reaction: has that "Did It On Em" vibe (the spitting) but also a little bit of "Massive Attack" in that it's hard to find a groove with the beat. In case you're confused about the title: "My ice is so cold it should come on a cone." Ending sounds like a parody.

"I Am Your Leader" Feat. Rick Ross & Cam'ron

More Mixtape Nicki. Already these first three tracks are leaving me wanting a storyline. Aren't albums supposed to have some sort of thesis? At least it's more melodic than the first two. God bless Cam'ron--"You just a nail I hammered."

"Beez in the Trap" Feat. 2 Chainz

Basically, "Bitches ain't shit." A minimal beat with some drips and bass farts. I could imagine blasting this song in a big truck and I'll probably add it to my playlist. Love her flow at the end. And 2 Chainz, well he's on it.

"Hov Lane"

Her bravado and the production drive this track. Would appreciate a bit more umph on the chorus, but Onika shows up here. Praise Roman.

"Champion" (Feat. Nas, Drake & Young Jeezy)

This is no "Monster" record. Miss me with the chorus, but I suppose that it's one of the stronger rap tracks.

"Roman Reloaded" (Feat. Lil' Wayne)

We've been here before, so I'm a bit bored with the super duper flow. 'Preciate Weezy coming in for the save, though.

"Right By My Side" (Feat. Chris Brown)

Pop Nicki should sound a lot more like this. The assist from Chris Brown fits perfectly over the production. If you're on the pop wave, this one is replay worthy, indeed.

"Sex In The Lounge" (Feat. Lil Wayne, Bobby V)

Bored. Didn't make it past the first verse.

“Starships”

“Starships” is Nicki Minaj gone Katy Perry. The Red One-produced track is best listened to while fist-pumping down the New Jersey Turnpike.

"Pound the Alarm"

"Pound the Alarm" sounds like it was made for Taio Cruz but Nicki's crossover appeal makes it work. David Guetta would be proud.

"Whip It"

"Whip" It will be on the soundtrack of every Lucille Roberts across the country. This track is for Jersey Shore juicehead fist-pumpers. Beat the beat up!