When it comes to retro-flavored pop, 19-year-old Rob Deniel is tops. He’s already proven that with his 2020 hit “Ulap,” which he has since followed with a slew of fan-fave singles such as “Gabi,” “Diwa,” and “Kundiman.”

His brand-new single, titled “Sinta” seems to harken back to the classic OPM “Manila Sound,” but at the same time it sounds fresh, current.

Maybe because Rob has already moved past recording songs on his iPhone’s GarageBand, and is now really getting the hang of recording in a full-blown studio. Which is the reason why “Sinta” sounds fuller and brighter.

Whatever it is, there’s a real sense of movement for Rod Deniel this time around.

“May phase tayong dinadaan (as an artist),” said Rob during an interview, adding that currently, besides (retro pop), “may iba na rin akong nati-tripan na tunog.”

And just like that, he comes up with a deliciously sounding new song like “Sinta.”

And while Rob Deniel essentially operates as a solo artist, he still records with (some of) the same musicians he has worked with since the “Ulap” days. Which is one of the main reasons why the new track sounds tighter and in-the-pocket, contributing to that head-bobbing feel that the new song has.

So, is retro pop a thing of the past for Rob Deniel?

“I’ve realized na may mga tao na umaasa na something from me,” referring to the style that listeners have grown accustomed to hearing from him.

“Pero, I grew up listening to the classics, Elvis, Paul Anka, VST & Co.,” said Rob.

“Naisip ko, papanindigan ko na’to. let’s make this big as possible.”