During the Fossil x Nexus Lounge, artist and DJ Phil OD sat down with Maxine for an engaging conversation that explored identity, innovation, and the rhythm-driven philosophy behind his music. Known for fusing electronic dance music with raw rock influences, Phil OD brings a bold and unconventional edge to the modern electronic landscape—one that’s as visual as it is sonic.
Since emerging in 2017, Phil OD has carved out a distinctive presence not only through sound but also through striking imagery. Central to that identity is his signature mask, inspired by the intricate mechanics of contra-rotating helicopter systems. More than a visual hook, the mask represents his entrance into the music world—an emblem of transformation where engineering, art, and performance collide. While influenced by other masked performers, Phil OD’s approach remains deeply personal, using anonymity to amplify the music itself.
When asked to connect his onstage persona to a watch from Fossil, Phil OD leaned toward designs that balance sophistication with simplicity—much like his productions. His tracks thrive on high-energy contrasts, blending EDM’s drive with rock’s rebellious spirit. “Timing is everything,” he explained, drawing parallels between music and life, where intuition and precision must move together in sync.
The conversation soon delved into Phil OD’s creative process, where melody takes center stage as the emotional backbone of every track. In a crowded industry, he’s committed to standing apart rather than blending in. Commercial trends don’t dictate his direction; authenticity does. His advice to emerging artists was clear and uncompromising: if you’re not doing something different, you risk becoming invisible.
Phil OD’s influences reflect his genre-bending ethos. While firmly rooted in electronic music, rock’s intensity and attitude shape the emotional weight of his work. Describing his music with playful honesty, he likened it to bold Roquefort cheese—strong, unmistakable, and not for the faint of heart. Even lighthearted moments, like choosing between remixing a crying baby or a fax machine, revealed his preference for warmth and humanity—qualities he strives to weave into his productions.
Looking ahead, Phil OD is pushing into new territory with boundary-breaking projects, including collaborations tied to cryptocurrency concepts and innovative Canadian labels. These ventures underscore his ambition to reach wider audiences and bigger stages, with personal milestones—like performing for crowds of 500 or more—fueling his momentum.
Phil OD’s journey is a testament to music’s power to evolve without losing its soul. Through rhythm, melody, and fearless experimentation, he continues to build soundscapes that energize and inspire. For those eager to explore the ideas, stories, and passion behind the mask, listening to the full interview below offers a deeper dive into the mind of an artist who refuses to stand still.
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