OM53 (Cris Araya), born in Costa Rica and raised in New Jersey, USA, is the driving force behind the Indie Alternative project, drawing inspiration from bands like Kid Bloom, Men I Trust, Tame Impala, Hers, Dayglow, and Boy Pablo. In 2020, OM53 marked its debut with the album "Defender," a departure from the typical sound of faith-based music. With influences from Synthwave 80s sounds, the album gained over 1 million streams on streaming platforms, reaching radio audiences in Latin America and the UK, earning the title of song of the year on a prominent Guatemalan radio station.

The evolution continued with the release of "Junior Year (Homecoming) Side A," revealing a more intimate side of OM53's indie pop project. This album served as an open letter, delving into themes of insecurities, love, church politics, and the journey of growing up. Anticipating the release of the new project "get better" in early 2024, OM53 explores themes of brokenness and the need for help in the single "cast (get better)." The upcoming release emphasizes embracing imperfections, as showcased in tracks like "Waiting for the Day" and "Twenty Something." OM53 has also shared stages with acts like Colony House, Newsboys, Lecrae, and We the Kingdom, establishing a presence in various venues nationwide, including the main stage at Creation Fest, Soul Fest, and the Mann Center in Philadelphia. With a distinctive blend of nostalgia, faith, analog synths, chorus guitars, and catchy melodies, OM53 is making a mark in the indie scene, promising more shows and new music on the horizon.

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​Contact

om53band@gmail.com