Denton band ODYSSEY calls it quits — sort of

by Andy Odom of My Denton Music

The band changed their name from This Old House to ODYSSEY to avoid legal action, but are now having to drop ODYSSEY for similar reasons.

This Old House

Denton space-folkies ODYSSEY are calling it quits. Sorta. The news spread via Twitter and Facebook with announcements of a "Final Show" to take place on April 1st at Rubber Gloves. But, while most bands cite personality conflicts or artistic differences when discussing their demise, ODYSSEY's reason isn't quite as serious, or permanent.

"There were never any problems or differences as far as us five go," says singer Ryan McAdams; "I couldn't think of any other people that I would rather play with more." But, if it's not a personnel issue, why stop? "[We] couldn't get the copyright for ODYSSEY," admitted guitarist Kennon Talley.

This is the second time the band has run into legal issues with its name. Just weeks ago, they had to change their name from This Old House after being contacted by representatives who, Talley says, "let us know they were aware of us." They chose ODYSSEY as the new name to avoid legal action, but are now having to drop ODYSSEY for similar reasons. "We were approached by several individuals about both names that we were using," confirms McAdams.

While ODYSSEY may be finished as a band name, the musicians aren't finished with each other. This move is as much about a young band still finding it's identity as it is about legal issues.

"As far as This Old House and ODYSSEY go, thats all over with. As far as the band members Drew, Michael, Kennon and Jim and I go, we are not done," says McAdams. "I think us five have become very comfortable playing with each other but no longer are creating the same music that This Old House was associated with."

Considering they've only been together for about one year, this growth is to be expected. But, rest assured, we haven't heard the last of this group, whatever their name is. Talley says, "The plan is to play the last few shows we have booked as ODYSSEY, take a break to record, then come back under a different name and release the recordings."