Interview with ODC (2/2)

The debut album by French alternative metal band ODC is entitled “Twisted Love”. In the first part, we spoke to mastermind Celia about some of the songs and the band’s beginnings. We continue our chat and talk about the odyssey of life, life in France and much more.

Orkus: “Twisted Love” was produced in Nashville, Tennessee, with Kellen McGregor. How did this idea and decision come about? – Especially as Nashville is not exactly near Paris?
Celi: We wanted someone who really understood the balance between power and melody. We had been following Kellen’s work for some time and his production approach was exactly what we were looking for. He has the ability to create a massive “wall of sound” while still paying very close attention to the vocals, especially the female vocals, which was extremely important to us. When we finally got in touch with him, it immediately felt right. He brought a fresh perspective while respecting the emotional core of the songs. In the end, distance didn’t matter – creativity spreads easily when people share the same vision.

O: Is it true that the band name ODC is based on the acronym of your name, Celia Do? If so, how did you come up with this idea?

C: The story is a little longer. It all started with the idea of “The Odyssey of Celia Do”. The project was first called “Odyssey”, which later became “ODC”. Coincidentally, it also reflects my initials in reverse order – CDO became ODC.

O: So the band name can also be understood as “Odyssey”?
C: Yes, definitely – and I like this interpretation very much. Music is a journey emotionally, artistically and personally. For me, ODC is really an odyssey – my therapy and my way of becoming the person I want to be. It is the odyssey of my artistic alter ego.

O: How did you get to know the other three band members? – And what is a particularly nice/good skill that each member has?
C: We got to know each other through the music scene and shared creative contacts. Each member brings something unique to the table. Sonny has this incredible ability to completely surrender on stage and forget everything else. Raphael has amazing solos and improvisations. Hector has incredible stamina and a kind of hyperactive energy that drives the band forward.

O: What do you particularly like about living in France?
C: France has a very strong relationship with culture and artistic expression. There is a deep appreciation for creativity, which is very inspiring as an artist.

O: What three things or characteristics do you think are typically French?
C: A love of debate, food and perhaps a slightly complaining attitude.

O: And what do you think is typically German?
C: Precision, open-mindedness and beer.

O: Which three places in Paris do you particularly like?
C: Montmartre because of its artistic history, the Seine at night because of its atmosphere and the small streets on the left bank of the Seine where you can really feel the creative spirit of the city.

O: What are the future plans for ODC?
C: We have a new song coming soon with the fantastic American singer Luweazl, the front woman of Offspec. We are also planning more concerts in Spain, France and Germany – some dates will be announced soon. And we are currently recording our second album.

Claus Müller

Line-up:
Celia – vocals
Raphaël – guitar
Sonny – bass
Hector – drums

Watch the video for “Twisted Love”: