Words by Rachel June
Photos by Carl Os
ASBO was amazed by 28-year-old Aussie artist Odette, so we grabbed her for a chat to discuss the music that matters to her. “I make music for and about complicated people”, she summarises. Jazz and folk elements, electronic aspects and her signature bright vocals, complete with impressive riffs, will have you hooked. Inspired by the music her parents played growing up, she describes her sound flavour as “Alt-pop, folk, rustic and raw with papery textures”, and it's a fitting description. If you're looking for somewhere to start, listen to AAAH!, which captures everything that makes Odette special. The soaring vocals, emotional honesty and textured production make it the perfect introduction to her world.
“Music is an exchange between people. It’s a form of communication.”
That sense of connection runs through every track. Odette's lyrics are real, raw and deeply personal, touching on a period of bad mental health while exploring healing, identity and growth. Lyrically, she tells us that writing was a way to process hard times. “I tried to find the beauty and catharsis and ethereal light” to navigate the healing process.
Rather than dwelling in darkness, her music feels hopeful. It's a waxing and waning journey to Odette finding her “Ethereal new self”. From clouds came clarity, and that's exactly what you hear in her music. Each song feels honest, inviting listeners to find pieces of themselves within the stories she tells.
Odette was born to do this. She knew from an early age there was no other option but to sing. “If you told me at age eight I’d be doing music, I’d be like… I know! It’s not like we are going to do anything else!?” For anyone hoping to follow a similar path, her advice is refreshingly simple: “Take care, hang with your friends, go outside”.
Advice-wise, she tells us to be smart. “Not everyone is your bestie”, she expressed. Collaboration is also incredibly important, and Odette gives a special shoutout to Damian, who “Helped me find my footing” on this album.
Odette is currently listening to Stunts by Twan and, fun fact, she's fascinated by fungi.
Whether you're after music that surprises you, comforts you or simply makes you feel understood, Odette deserves a place on your playlist. Making music she is deeply proud of, stay tuned as Odette travels the world and continues to share her music. She leaves us with this: “One day I’ll own a harp, and then it’s all over for everyone”.