[INTERVIEW] Odd Mob Dissects His Electrifying New EP, 'Club Rompas'

Connor Phillips | August 01, 2023

From the innovative mind of Brisbane-based Harry Hope, Odd Mob has spent the last decade igniting dance floors with his intense combination of house and techno heaters. His personal collection of invigorating bangers, such as “LEFT TO RIGHT”, has garnered support from Tiësto, John Summit, Dom Dolla, Chris Lake, and many other prime selectors.

Continuing to spice things up, Odd Mob is back with his latest project, Club Rompas. We linked up with this high-energy artist to discuss the new compilation and other aspects of his project.

Check out iEDM’s exclusive interview with Odd Mob below.

iEDM: What inspired the collage for the cover art of Club Rompas? Can you explain the significance of some objects on it, such as the train carriage, anvil, shoes, wrench, and birthday cake?

Odd Mob: There’s no significance actually! The whole EP is a bit silly and random, so we wanted to keep the same randomness with the artwork.

iEDM: How did you come across or create the lyrics used in “XTC”? How do they complement the instrumental to create the industrial vibe throughout the track?

Odd Mob: I recorded the “XTC” vocals in my first take. I wasn’t really too focussed on the lyrics, more so the vibe of being in a dank underground club.

iEDM: What soundscape, layer, or section of “XTC” are you most drawn to, and why?

Odd Mob: I really like the chant layer that starts to come in after the first drop. It’s a random vocal phrase that's pitched down a significant amount. When I pitched it down it created a slightly more interesting rhythm which I loved.

iEDM: What were the highlights of collaborating with bass house duo Birthdayyy Partyy on “Underground”? Which parts of the song reflect each of your signature styles?

Odd Mob: It was great to collab with the BP boys, as they are just genuinely lovely human beings. A lot of the gnarly bass stabs are up their alley, whereas the weird rumbly bass is more up mine!

iEDM: What is the story behind meeting with Basura Boyz and working with them on “Guest List” and “Blisters On My Feet”?

Odd Mob: When I was last in Chicago, myself and Bryan from Birthdayy Partyy ended up linking at Basura Boyz' studio. A bit later in the year I put a call out for vocals on some WIPs (works-in-progress) on my Instagram story and Basura Boyz sent me a whole pack of sick vocals which I used on both the tracks.

iEDM: If you had to pick one, what club or other setting do you believe “Blisters On My Feet” is primed for and why?

Odd Mob: Definitely a sweat Aussie club

iEDM: From your perspective, what is the meaning behind the title of Club Rompas? How does this EP offer something fresh and captivating for music fans?

Odd Mob: Club Rompas is just meant to be a fun-filled EP that serves no other purpose than catching a few stank faces in the club. I wanted to simply experiment with some cool sounds without necessarily worrying about making them “fully fleshed” meaningful tracks.

iEDM: What did it mean to you to be able to make your debut at Coachella in April, and play at EDC Las Vegas in May?

Odd Mob: It’s been nuts to play such huge festivals. Honestly, a dream come true!

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iEDM: You never fail to rocking a dope fit when on the decks! A hat, t-shirt, and satchel seems to be the lethal combo for you. Why do you love repping this outfit? What are your top fashion brands and trends right now?

Odd Mob: I love a lot of stuff ZARA has at the moment. I’m trying to get into more niche/boutique brands at the moment. The satchel is more of a safety thing for me, so I don’t bloody lose everything all the time.

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iEDM: Since starting your musical journey until now, how do you think you have evolved as an artist? What is the most important lesson or technique you have learned along the way?

Odd Mob: The most critical lesson is not to overthink it! Always evolve, learn, and try new things. :)

iEDM: What upcoming performances or projects are you fired up about? What main goals do you hope to accomplish by the end of 2023?

Odd Mob: Super excited about some releases I’ve got coming up with OMNOM as well as a more melodic EP I’m hoping to drop a bit later in the year.