Brussels-based hard techno DJ Antoine Lauffer, known professionally as Odymel, is facing allegations of sexual misconduct, prompting the cancellation of several upcoming performances. The controversy erupted following accusations leveled online, with Lauffer responding by claiming the alleged incident occurred while he was sleepwalking – a condition he identifies as sexsomnia. The case has ignited a wider conversation about accountability and safety within the electronic music scene.
The allegations first surfaced last week when an Instagram account, believed to be linked to the management company STEƎR, posted accusations against Lauffer and other artists. The claims included allegations of attempted silence payments related to sexual assault. Following the emergence of these accusations, STEƎR Management dropped Lauffer and other artists implicated in the claims, initiating a review of the situation, according to reports. The agency’s roster and recent social media posts have since been removed.
Festival Cancellations and Industry Response
Glitch Festival, scheduled to take place in Malta this summer, was the first to announce the cancellation of Odymel’s scheduled DJ set. The festival stated on social media that Lauffer “will no longer be performing at Glitch Festival 2026” in light of the allegations. Times of Malta reported on the festival’s decision, highlighting the swift response to the accusations. A performance at Brussels Gate on March 14th has also been cancelled by the Hangar art collective, and other festivals and clubs are reportedly reconsidering their bookings.
The situation is part of a broader reckoning within the hard techno community, with a platform called Me Too DJs activated to provide support to victims and witnesses within electronic music. The initial spark for these widespread allegations came from a user named Brad No Limit, a former employee of STEƎR Management, who shared screenshots of chat conversations alleging abusive behavior by multiple artists. This led to the emergence of what has been dubbed the ‘techno-files’ on social media.
Lauffer’s Defense and the Question of Sexsomnia
In a statement posted on Instagram, Lauffer acknowledged the allegations but attributed the alleged incident to a state of sleepwalking, specifically identifying it as sexsomnia. He claims to have no recollection of the events, stating they occurred after a consensual encounter. VRT News reports that Inge Declercq, a sleep expert at UZA (University Hospital Antwerp), confirms sexsomnia is a recognized condition, but notes it can be difficult to assess in a legal context.
Sexsomnia, also known as sleep sex, is a parasomnia – a category of sleep disorders that involve abnormal movements or behaviors during sleep. While recognized medically, the legal implications of actions taken during such episodes are complex and often debated. Lauffer has stated he is cooperating with an ongoing preliminary investigation initiated at the request of the alleged victim, with two hearings already having taken place.
Broader Allegations in the Techno Scene
Odymel is not the only artist facing accusations. Other prominent figures in the hard techno scene have been implicated in allegations ranging from sexual assault and grooming to sending inappropriate images. Los40 reports that DJ Shlømo has been accused of rape and sexual abuse, while Basswell faces allegations of sexual assault and sending unsolicited explicit photos. DJ CARV reportedly admitted to infidelities but denies non-consensual acts.
The industry’s response has been swift, with some artists having their performances cancelled or postponed. The unfolding situation underscores a growing demand for accountability and a safer environment within the electronic music industry. The long-term impact of these allegations and the ongoing investigations remains to be seen.
As investigations continue and more information comes to light, the hard techno scene faces a critical juncture. The outcome of these cases and the industry’s response will likely shape the future of accountability and safety within the community. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and engage in respectful discussion in the comments below.
