Ian Umali

Guitarist

Primary Band(s):

P.O.T

Playstyle & Tone Profile:

Heavily-rhythmic rock, funk, and soul fusion.

Musical Journey & Growth

  • A Lifelong Companion: Ian's musical journey began in 1988 with a second-hand Greco 335 given to him by his father. Remarkably, this is the exact same guitar he used to play in a Metallica tribute band, write and record original music, tour the Philippines, and it remains his number one instrument to this day.
  • The Return of P.O.T: Initially inspired to play by Aztec Camera's "Release," Ian developed a heavily-rhythmic style drawing from rock, metal, punk, new wave, and Motown. Today, he proudly serves as the driving guitar force behind the iconic band P.O.T, anchoring their sound following the group's highly anticipated revival in 2022.

Musical Influences &
Sonic Philosophy

  • The Fire and Passion: Ian considers Stevie Ray Vaughan, James Hetfield, and Jeff Healey to be his primary guitar influences. Rather than simply mimicking their specific techniques, he focuses on emulating the raw fire, intensity, and deep passion that fuels their legendary playing.
  • Eclectic Rhythmic Roots: His aggressive but groovy playing style is shaped by a vast array of genres, successfully blending the hard-hitting edge of punk and metal with the deep pocket of Motown, soul, and blues.

All of Montances' products are very reliable and well-made. They ensure my tone is consistent, especially during live performances.

Gear of Choice

Montances Vintage Humbucker | Alnico II | Full Set | Dimensional Modern-Vintage Warmth

Montances Vintage Humbucker | Alnico II | Full Set | Dimensional Modern-Vintage Warmth
Montances Silent Series Guitar Instrument Cable | Mute Feature | Low Capacitance | MS Plugs

Montances Silent Series Guitar Instrument Cable | Mute Feature | Low Capacitance | MS Plugs
K Strings Classic Series | Nickel Wound | 8-38, 9-42, 10-46, 11-50 | Electric Guitar Strings

K Strings Classic Series | Nickel Wound | 8-38, 9-42, 10-46, 11-50 | Electric Guitar Strings
K Strings Premium Coated | Nickel Wound | 8-38, 9-42, 10-46, 11-52 | Electric Guitar Strings

K Strings Premium Coated | Nickel Wound | 8-38, 9-42, 10-46, 11-52 | Electric Guitar Strings
La Bella Pure Vintage | Pure Nickel Roundwound | 9-42 to 11-50 | Electric Guitar String Set

La Bella Pure Vintage | Pure Nickel Roundwound | 9-42 to 11-50 | Electric Guitar String Set

Key Milestones

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Ian has carved out a legendary career in the local music scene, most notably recording P.O.T's seminal album alongside Mally Paraguya, Harley Alarcon, and the late Karl Roy. That monumental record garnered numerous nominations, awards, and widespread industry recognition, allowing Ian to tour extensively and see most of the Philippines. Today, he considers his greatest milestones to be his ongoing ability to continue playing music at a high level, his successful national tours, and becoming a proud artist in the Montances Guitar Wiring family.