In a triumphant return to music, Glenn Mena delivers his long-anticipated album, Night Bus. This 16-track project marks his first full body of work since the critically acclaimed Mask and Music project. With this album, Glenn establishes himself as a formidable voice in contemporary Afrobeat and genre-bending music, blending storytelling with cultural homage and personal reflection.
The album opens with “Star in the Making,” a self-assured anthem where Glenn reflects on his journey, trials, and ultimate ascension to superstardom. It’s a confident declaration of his evolution and artistic growth, setting the tone for the deeply personal and sonically versatile tracks that follow.
Next comes “Emergency,” a familiar track to fans as it was released prior to the album. Yet, its infectious rhythm and relatable Afrobeat melody ensure it still feels fresh, reaffirming Glenn’s knack for creating timeless hits.
The third track, “Standing Fan,” stands out for its emotional resonance. Here, Glenn features a poignant voice recording of his father, who shares life advice about patience and perseverance, reminding Glenn—and the listener—that every journey has its season. This track showcases Glenn’s ability to seamlessly weave personal moments into his music, creating something both relatable and deeply intimate.
Other standout tracks include “Bandana” and “If You Get Mind Shoot,” both of which highlight Glenn’s lyrical prowess and ability to craft songs that are as introspective as they are catchy.
The project also revisits Glenn’s previously released tracks, “Normal” and “Normally.” While “Normal” leans into dancehall vibes with a compelling narrative style, “Normally” brings back the Azonto street dance era, demonstrating Glenn’s range and ability to revive and reinvent nostalgic sounds for today’s audience.
One of the album’s most remarkable moments comes with “Uwo Erezina,” a song that pays homage to Glenn’s roots in Warri, Nigeria. Featuring a melodic performance by his mother in their native dialect, this track is a testament to Glenn’s deep connection to his heritage. The raw emotion and authenticity of this piece highlight where Glenn’s creative talents stem from, further grounding the album in his Southern Nigerian identity.
Collaborations also play a key role in Night Bus. Tracks like “Star Don Show” featuring Mani Lapussh and “Get Sense” featuring Demmie Vee add layers of dynamism to the album, as Glenn shares the spotlight with equally talented artists.
As the album progresses, tracks like “Committee of Friends” and “I Believe You Die” delve into themes of loyalty, trust, and camaraderie, while “Complete Person” and “Happy” offer more introspective and celebratory moments, rounding out the emotional spectrum of the album.
The project closes with an outro, “Ono Sa Ufi,” tying the journey together with reflective notes and leaving listeners with a sense of fulfillment and anticipation for Glenn’s next steps.
Throughout Night Bus, Glenn Mena pours raw emotion and authenticity into every track. From paying homage to his roots to pushing the boundaries of Afrobeat, the album is a masterclass in artistic expression. Its seamless blend of personal storytelling, cultural nods, and genre-defying sounds reaffirms Glenn’s status as a multifaceted artist with a story worth telling.
In Night Bus, Glenn Mena not only cements his place in the industry but also offers a deeply personal narrative that resonates with listeners. This album is not just music; it’s a testament to resilience, identity, and the power of art to connect us to our roots and propel us forward.
Night Bus is more than an album—it’s a journey, and Glenn Mena is firmly in the driver’s seat. For fans and newcomers alike, this is one ride worth taking.
