Techno's '#MeToo' moment: Brussels DJ responds to misconduct claims

A Brussels-based techno DJ has been named as part of wider claims of alleged sexual misconduct involving several high-profile DJs in the electronic music scene.

DJ Odymel has responded to the allegations, stating that he was sleepwalking at the time of the alleged incident.

The accusations, which surfaced in recent days, led to multiple cancellations of his performances at major festivals and venues.

Organisers of events including the acclaimed Dour Festival and Awakenings Festival removed the DJ from their line-ups following the claims.

The case has also emerged amid wider allegations involving several high profile DJs in the international dance music industry. Many of the DJ’s involved are members of France-based STEER agency.

The developments have reignited debate about safety, accountability and behaviour within the electronic music scene, with promoters and artists facing growing pressure to respond swiftly to allegations. So far many promoters and clubs have cancelled performances from the DJs involved.

In a public statement, Odymel acknowledged the seriousness of the situation. “I understand that my explanation is hard to believe in such a serious matter, and that ‘sleepwalking’ may sound like an easy excuse,” the DJ said.

He added, “I didn't seem like myself. Fortunately, people in such a state can follow simple, clear instructions. That's why, according to [the alleged victim], I stopped immediately when she verbally asked me to stop.”

Sleep expert Inge Declercq, affiliated with University Hospital Amsterdam, explained that such behaviour can occur during certain sleep disorders. “It's a form of parasomnia - by that, we mean all the strange behaviours a person can exhibit during deep sleep. We call this non-REM sleep (NREM) parasomnia.”

The controversy has sent shockwaves through the European techno scene. Brussels venue Hangar cancelled an upcoming performance. “Due to the current situation, the Odymel show has been cancelled,” the venue stated.

The STEER talent agency, which represents several of the DJs accused of misconduct, said in a statement: “If the facts are established and confirmed, immediate measures will be taken. If necessary, all appropriate actions, including legal action, will be pursued.”

On social media these accusations have been dubbed the “Techno Files” drawing a similarity to the notorious Epstein files. German DJ Carv, associated with STEER, admitted to inappropriate conduct in a separate matter.

“I've had private conversations with several women. I misjudged these interactions and acted selfishly,” he stated on Instagram. “I'm ashamed of this now. I hurt the person most dear to me. There's no excuse for that.”

French DJ Shlomo, also associated with STEER, denied accusations against him. “I am the target of a campaign of slander and false information, characterised by baseless and personal accusations and motives against me,” he said.

Meanwhile, British DJ Hannah Laing called for greater accountability in the live music industry. “We stand with anyone who may have been harmed,” she wrote. “Together with other women, I'm working behind the scenes to hold industry leaders accountable.”