Like skilled cartographers mapping the geography of emotion, the band featured here has been quietly charting new territories in the OPM landscape, building bridges between the personal and universal. Their deeply personal lyrics and melodic craftsmanship don't just speak to the soul—they whisper secrets we've carried alone, transforming solitude into solidarity.
If their name hasn't crossed your radar yet, consider this your invitation to discover what makes Calein one of the most compelling voices painting the soundtrack of contemporary Filipino life.
Getting To Know Calein
Calein is an indie-alternative band known for their heartfelt lyrics and emotional melodies. Formed in 2019, the group quickly caught attention with their raw yet relatable songwriting. They’re currently signed under OC Records, a label founded by Callalily’s Kean Cipriano, which has been home to many rising artists in the indie scene.
The band’s original lineup is composed of:
• JD Mustacho - Vocals
• Oliver Salaysay - Bass
• Benjo Criste - Drums
• Jonathan Garcia - Lead Guitars
Together, they’ve created a signature sound that blends indie rock, alternative, and a bit of pop sensibility—making their songs perfect for late-night listening sessions or long drives.
From Humble Beginnings to Rising Stars
Like many great musical stories, Calein's journey began with friends united by a shared passion for music. Since their formation, they've steadily built their reputation through local gigs and grassroots performances, earning fans through the universal language of honest songwriting.
Their association with OC Records marked a significant turning point, providing them with the resources and platform to refine their sound and reach broader audiences. This partnership has allowed them to maintain their artistic integrity while expanding their musical horizons.
Essential Tracks That Define Calein
For newcomers to Calein's catalog, these songs serve as perfect entry points into their emotional landscape:
"Umaasa" remains their most recognized track, a poignant exploration of unrequited love that resonates with anyone who's experienced the bittersweet nature of waiting for someone who may never reciprocate those feelings.
"Binibini" showcases their ability to craft gentle yet powerful ballads, proving that sometimes the softest voices carry the strongest messages.
"Oras" invites listeners into deeper contemplation about time, relationships, and the choices that shape our lives—a perfect soundtrack for moments of introspection.
"Tahanan" envelops listeners in warmth, serving as a musical reminder of what home truly means, whether that's a place, a person, or a feeling.
So far, Calein haven't released a full-album yet. Their EP "Unsent Messages" (2021) stands as a testament to their songwriting maturity and marked the beginning of Calein's new chapter under Aydalla's direction, featuring tracks that feel like intimate conversations you've always wanted to have but never found the words for.
In 2024, they released another EP, which they simply titled with their own name.
A New Chapter: Transition and Renewal
In 2021, Calein underwent a significant transformation that would redefine the band's identity and future. The band parted ways with original vocalist JD Mustacho following serious sexual assault allegations, leading to other members deciding to quit the ensemble.
Here’s the breakdown:
- These allegations remain unverified and have not been confirmed by credible news sources.
- The band has not released official statements addressing the rumors directly.
- Instead of dwelling on the negativity, the members have focused on writing, recording, and performing music, proving that their passion for OPM is what truly defines them.
This chapter of their story is a reminder of how tough the spotlight can be for young artists, and how important it is to weigh facts versus online noise.
This marked a pivotal moment that could have ended many bands permanently.
However, Kleyo Aydalla, who had previously served as bassist for the group, stepped forward to become the new face and voice of Calein. This transition represented more than just a personnel change—it was a complete reinvention of the band's direction while preserving the emotional core that made their music resonate with fans.
The single "Huli Na," released in September 2021, served as an introduction to Calein's new era under Aydalla's leadership. This period demonstrated remarkable resilience, as the remaining member chose to honor the band's musical legacy while establishing a fresh creative identity.
The transition wasn't just about survival—it was about growth and accountability. By making difficult decisions and moving forward with integrity, Calein showed that artistic projects can evolve beyond the actions of any single member when there's genuine commitment to the music and the community it serves.
What Makes Calein Special in Today's OPM Landscape
In a crowded field of talented Filipino musicians, Calein distinguishes itself through several key qualities:
Emotive Storytelling: Their lyrics feel like excerpts from personal journals, creating immediate emotional connections with listeners who see their own experiences reflected in the songs.
Musical Versatility: They successfully balance accessibility with depth, creating songs that are immediately catchy yet reward deeper listening with layers of meaning.
Live Performance Energy: Those who've experienced Calein live often describe feeling like they're part of an intimate gathering rather than a traditional concert, with the band creating a sense of community and shared experience.
Consistent Growth: Rather than rushing to capitalize on early success, they've shown patience in developing their sound and building a sustainable career in music.
Looking Forward: Why Calein Deserves Your Attention
As the Philippine music scene continues to evolve and gain international recognition, Calein represents the kind of authentic artistry that will likely define the next chapter of OPM. Their commitment to honest songwriting, combined with their growing musical sophistication, positions them as artists worth following for the long term.
Whether you're drawn to introspective ballads, energetic indie rock, or simply appreciate well-crafted songs that speak to universal human experiences, Calein offers something meaningful. In an era where music can sometimes feel manufactured, their genuine approach to songwriting feels both refreshing and necessary.
Final Thoughts to Ponder
Adding Calein to your playlist isn't just about discovering great music—it's about supporting the continued growth of Philippine independent music. By listening, sharing, and attending their performances, you're contributing to an ecosystem that allows authentic artists to thrive and continue creating the music that connects us all.
As Calein continues to evolve and mature as artists, they remain a band worth watching. Their journey from local performers to rising OPM stars serves as inspiration for aspiring musicians while providing listeners with the kind of heartfelt music that makes the soundtrack to our lives more meaningful.
The next time you're curating a playlist for a quiet evening, a road trip with friends, or simply want music that understands what it means to be human, consider giving Calein the listen they've earned through years of dedicated artistry.
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