With “Imaginary Lover”, Swedish artist and songwriter San Sebastian—the moniker of 19-year-old Sebastian Rydgren—steps confidently into a new creative chapter, blending deep house sophistication with the catchy immediacy of commercial pop. The track is not only the first glimpse into his forthcoming EP but also a clear statement of intent: a refined and emotionally charged sound that positions San Sebastian as one of the most promising young voices in contemporary pop-electronic music.
From the very first seconds, “Imaginary Lover” unfolds with crystalline production and a rhythmic backbone that immediately draws listeners into its nocturnal world. The beat construction follows a classic deep house structure—steady four-on-the-floor kicks, subtle hi-hats, and a pulsating bass line—but San Sebastian and his collaborators elevate it with a distinctly melodic sensibility. The groove maintains a smooth balance between club-ready energy and radio-friendly accessibility, an approach that allows the song to live both on the dancefloor and in more introspective listening contexts.
The synth design is one of the standout elements of the track. Lush pads create a spacious atmosphere, while bright arpeggios weave through the mix, providing both movement and texture. The layers of sound are meticulously crafted, never overwhelming, but instead creating a sense of emotional tension and release that mirrors the lyrical theme of desire and illusion. The production displays a keen attention to detail—every sonic element seems to have its precise place, contributing to a cohesive, cinematic soundscape.
Vocally, San Sebastian delivers a restrained yet emotive performance. His tone carries both clarity and warmth, perfectly complementing the track’s sleek electronic backdrop. There’s a sincerity in his delivery that feels intimate, drawing listeners into the emotional narrative of longing for a love that may exist only in imagination. This interplay between vulnerability and control echoes the best of Scandinavian pop—clean, minimalist, yet profoundly human.
The lyrical content of “Imaginary Lover” explores the blurred line between fantasy and reality, portraying the comfort and melancholy found in imagined connections. San Sebastian doesn’t approach the theme with melodrama, but rather with a subtle emotional maturity that belies his young age. It’s a meditation on escapism in the digital age—where emotional experiences can be both vivid and intangible—and the production mirrors this concept beautifully, floating between dreamy synth layers and grounded rhythmic precision.
The arrangement unfolds with a careful sense of progression. The first half builds steadily, introducing new sonic elements at just the right moments. By the time the chorus hits, the song blossoms into a euphoric release—sparkling synths and uplifting chords carrying the emotional weight of the refrain. The bridge section strips back the energy, offering a moment of introspection before the final chorus reintroduces the full instrumental palette with renewed force. It’s a masterclass in dynamic control, maintaining listener engagement through subtle shifts rather than overt spectacle.
From a technical standpoint, “Imaginary Lover” exemplifies high-quality production and songwriting craftsmanship. The mix is pristine, the low-end tight and polished, and the midrange balanced to highlight both vocals and instrumental clarity. Each sonic layer complements the next, resulting in a fluid, immersive listening experience.
As the first release from his upcoming EP, “Imaginary Lover” signals an exciting phase in San Sebastian’s artistic journey. Having gained early recognition on Swedish Idol in 2022—where he captivated audiences with his vocal prowess and magnetic stage presence—he now channels that same charisma into studio artistry. Supported early in his career by Anders Bagge, the acclaimed songwriter and producer known for his work with Madonna, Celine Dion, and Robyn, Sebastian has clearly absorbed a deep understanding of pop structure and emotional resonance, applying it here with remarkable finesse.
In sum, “Imaginary Lover” stands as a polished, evocative, and rhythmically engaging piece of electronic pop. It bridges the sensual pulse of deep house with the melodic charm of modern Scandinavian pop, resulting in a sound that feels both contemporary and timeless.
We’re delighted to feature this release on our webzine—a track that not only showcases San Sebastian’s impressive vocal and songwriting talent but also marks the emergence of a distinct sonic identity. If “Imaginary Lover” is any indication of what’s to come, the forthcoming EP promises to solidify his position as a rising star in the European electronic-pop landscape.