MIDI is based on the 12-tone system, the musical scale that we are used to. An octave is divided into 12 equal parts, hence the term 12 EDO (Equal Division of the Octave).

In our part of the world there have been experiments with microtonal scales, such as quarter tone piano, as early as the 1920's. The use of quarter tones, 24 notes per octave, is 24 EDO.

What if we convert a tune in 12 EDO to 24 EDO? Think of it as a compressor; two octaves are compressed into one, preserving the relative distance of the notes.

If you think it sounds weird, it's only because your ears are not used to it.