Recently we had the good fortune of chatting with Mike Odd, manager of the super parody band MAC SABBATH. In our conversation we dove into everything from the bands new tour and the quirks of consumerism to humor’s role in mental health.
Dark Works: Thank you for taking the time to talk with me, Mike. I know you’re busy with the upcoming tour. I’m really looking forward to seeing you all on the 21st in Vancouver!
Mike Odd: Yeah, thank you! It’s actually our first time in Vancouver in 10 years. It’s about time we made it back.
On the Band and Their Message
Dark Works: You’ve probably been asked about the inspiration behind the band a million times. Let’s flip that—what’s the weirdest idea the band has rejected for a song?
Mike Odd: (Laughs) Oh, well, there was this Deep Purple parody concept for Thanksgiving called “Turducken.” Instead of Space Truckin’, it was “Come on, let’s eat turducken!” Ronald thought the American concept of stuffing a duck inside a chicken inside a turkey was the ultimate symbol of excess and gluttony. It was brilliant but a little too far out. Even explaining it now probably doesn’t translate well!
*Can you imagine a giant inflatable turducken being thrown around the crowd like a beach ball?*
Dark Works: Mac Sabbath humorously critiques fast food culture. Do you think the band will ever expand its parodies to address consumerism beyond fast food?
Mike Odd: Ronald’s main focus is saving the world from the current state of music and sustenance. He talks about coming here from the 1970s to bring us back to a time when rock and food were more organic. But you’re right—it’s really about consumerism and the poisons we’re fed. The rules about food in the U.S. are insane. Things that are banned everywhere else are totally legal here. So the message really aligns with that broader critique of what we consume, not just food.
Dark Works: If fast food didn’t exist in a parallel universe, how would Mac Sabbath get its message across?
Mike Odd: I suppose the band wouldn’t have to exist in that universe! Ronald and the gang might just be frolicking in vegetable land instead of trying to save the world. But honestly, the demand for their message is so high right now, I don’t think they’d stop.
Mental Health and Humor
Dark Works: As an advocate for mental health, I think Mac Sabbath’s humor resonates deeply with fans. How does the band think humor helps them and their fans deal with tough issues like mental health?
Mike Odd: That’s a great question. If you dive into the lyrics, there’s some really serious stuff being said. But when it’s delivered live, it’s humorous, like a spoonful of sugar. It’s up to the fans to decide how deeply they want to engage with it. As for mental health, I’ll be honest, touring isn’t exactly conducive to it—for the band or for anyone involved. The constant media bombardment today doesn’t help either. It’s crucial to take control of what you consume instead of letting “them” feed you what they want. Humor offers a way to slip important messages past those defenses.
Dark Works: Content consumption today is fast and disposable, from social media to fast food. How do you think this mindset impacts how people engage with live music and art?
Mike Odd: It’s definitely influencing how people interact with art. Quick fixes like Instagram and TikTok are low-quality substitutes for real engagement. Consuming art requires time and effort, but it’s worth it. I hope fans slow down and really experience what we’re offering at a Mac Sabbath show.
Dark Works: Social media burnout is real, even for bands. How does Mac Sabbath handle the pressure to stay relevant in a world demanding constant output?
Mike Odd: That’s the challenge, isn’t it? Ronald is a self-proclaimed time traveler stuck in the 1970s, so he refuses to engage with modern tech like MP3s or streaming. As his manager, I’ve had to find ways to keep us relevant while staying true to his analog vision. For example, our music only comes on vinyl in a pop-up or coloring book format. It’s a balancing act, but Ronald insists on avoiding the traps of modern consumerism.
Touring Life
Dark Works: Touring can be grueling. What’s the hardest part of being on the road?
Mike Odd: Honestly, it’s the sheer amount of work. We’re putting on an arena-sized show in club-sized venues, and it’s all DIY. We travel with a small crew, so every setup and teardown is intense. There’s barely time to sleep, let alone do interviews or sightseeing. But that hour or so on stage? That makes it all worth it.
Dark Works: Any favorite or least favorite parts of touring?
Mike Odd: The best part is definitely the show itself. Everything else—the driving, the setup, the breakdown—is exhausting. But when the audience connects with the performance, it’s amazing. As for least favorite? Let’s just say snowstorms and late arrivals to venues are not fun.
Dark Works: Has the band ever had a fan moment that stands out as particularly wild?
Mike Odd: Oh, the fans really go all out. We’ve seen incredible costumes inspired by the band—everything from food items to restaurant workers. Once, someone even tried to crawl inside Grimalice during a show. I don’t recommend that, though. (Laughs)
Dark Works: After a high-energy show, how does the band unwind?
Mike Odd: There’s no real unwinding—it’s straight back to work. We’re breaking down the set and getting ready to hit the road by 3 a.m.
The Future of Mac Sabbath
Dark Works: What’s next for Mac Sabbath? Anything special planned for this tour?
Mike Odd: It’s our 10-year anniversary, so there are definitely some surprises in store. But, of course, I can’t tell you—it wouldn’t be a surprise then, would it?
Dark Works: If the band could leave one message for future generations through a song, which one would it be?
Mike Odd: “GMO Blind,” which is a parody of Snowblind. It’s about being blind to the poisons in our food, but the message extends to everything we consume. It’s all about questioning what you take in—food, media, everything.
Dark Works: Thanks so much for your time, Mike. I can’t wait to see you all in Vancouver!
Mike Odd: Thank you! You asked some really thoughtful questions—I feel like I should’ve studied for this interview! Looking forward to seeing you at the show. Take care!
After catching Mac Sabbath’s unforgettable show on the 21st, it’s clear that everything Mike Odd said in our interview holds true. The band’s unique blend of humor, critique, and pure theatrical chaos resonated deeply with the Vancouver crowd, making their first visit in a decade well worth the wait. Having seen them bring their message to life on stage, I’m even more impressed by their dedication to delivering an experience that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
If you haven’t read my full review of the concert yet, be sure to check it out-it’s hard to put into words just how wildly creative and impactful this band truly is.
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