A compelling electro-pop sound with both emotive and danceable qualities shows across Anywhere, the new EP from Pol Sembrano. The Seattle-based, Filipino-American composure and classically trained pianist emphasizes an atmospheric yet hooky sound throughout, drawing inspiration from acts like Depeche Mode, New Order, and early Kylie Minogue.
“Anywhere” commences the EP with a club-friendly spirit, weaving brisk synth pulsations and bass-y bounces amidst yearning vocals — “just you and me until eternity.” The “go anywhere,” escalation stirs with a spacey synth pad backing, reminding fondly of Erasure in its overall drive. “Open Mind” follows with a more dreamier-paced intrigue, clamoring to “give this thing a try,” with soaring vocal immersion; the opening one-two punch shows an enjoyably dynamic pull between spirited electro-pop infectiousness and more contemplative emotion within “Open Mind.”
The EP continues to impress with the serene “Number,” invoking a rainy-day charm with its mellow piano and introspective vocal gliding. Climactic percussion ventures seamlessly into expressive vocal moments and lush synth adornments, reminding fondly of New Order at points. “Nothing to Say” concludes the release with a catchy pace similar to the opening “Anywhere,” channeling a danceable electro-pop composure. Anywhere is a memorable electro-pop success from Pol Sembrano.
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“Anywhere” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
