Pol Sembrano is a Filipino-American composer and classically trained pianist from Seattle who has now established his own sonic and spiritual imprint on emotionally charged and immersive synth pop, new wave and electronic music. After the initial teaser EP release of his early singles mixes, Pol has officially launched the roll-out of his upcoming self-titled album, due in February 2026. The album is produced by Canadian heavyweight musician (Belvedere, Vixin) and producer, Casey Lewis of Echo Base Studios. The music is danceable and experimental at the same time. A thought-provoking party vibe the likes of which hasn’t been seen since the late 00s or even the 80s.
The second single “Open Mind” weaves Pol Sembrano’s powerful message true life experience around pulsating beats and multi-layered orchestration to deeply inspired effect. “Open Mind” explores human relationship and fearless rick-taking with a message of acceptance and spirituality Fans of artists like the Pet Shop Boys, Depeche Mode, Blondie, New Order, Future Utopia, The New Pornographers, CHVRCHES, Erasure, Poolside and even Madonna will find inspiration in this brilliant and wide open creative mind.
Lyrically it provides support and encouragement to those who are being oppressed and/or persecuted. The narrator may have experienced being in this situation but was successful in overcoming his personal hardship and adversity.
“Open Mind” is about accepting people for who they are and supporting them if they are suffering from any sort of persecution.”
About his signature sound, Pol adds “I have always been confident in myself as a musician and by writing, producing, arranging and performing on my own. I am a classically trained pianist, but I am also inspired by other genres of music, in this case electronic/dance music. This provides a whole new dimension in my music persona as I do not wish to be categorized as “this or that type of artist”. The music is hook-driven with melodies that intertwine, especially at the end. This enables the listener to hear subtle nuances which make for an interesting listening experience.”
With a focus on vintage synths inspired by experimental artists of the 80s and 90s, Sembrano also puts an emphasis on his existential lyrics. It’s a form of artistry he likely wasn’t able to explore much as a classical pianist, not to mention programming. But he has embraced this expression wholeheartedly.
We Rave You calls his sound “A Sonic Odyssey of Love, Loss, and Liberation”, and Big Takeover Magazine describes it as “danceable yet thought-provoking, nostalgic and fresh” while likening the sound to Depeche Mode and New Order. Grungecake commented that Pol “combines intricate melodies, existential lyrics, and a polished production style reminiscent of icons like Depeche Mode, New Order, and Blondie.”
Listen to “Open Mind” on Spotify.
Listen to “Open Mind” (Radio Edit).
