Intuitive Music

Devo

Devo is one of the most important bands new wave American bands from the 70’s whom influenced the forthcoming synth pop generation.

The band was formed in 1972 in Akron, Ohio by Jerry Casale and Mark Mothersbaugh. Influenced by the Dadaist movement of the early century and Frank Zappa’s acid combination of humor and critcism, their concept as a band was based on the idea of devolution, the regression instead of progression of American society, hence the name Devo. The first Devo’s lineup featured Gerry Casale, Mark Mothersbaugh, Jim Mothersbaugh and Bob Mothersbaugh.

Devo’s music is basically a fusion of electro pop and synth pop, highly influenced by 60’s space age pop such as Bruce Haack, and the TV comercial American culture from the 50’s and 60’s. Devo are credited to be the first American acts to perform on stage using only synthesizers. They were also one of the first bands to regularly use radio microphones and microphone headsets on stage.

Devo’s debut album “Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!” was released in 1978, and produced by Brian Eno. The band used simple electronic and mechanical noises to show the concept of how people are becoming fake and robotic and became popular for his pseudo-futuristic costumes in their live performance under the influence of kraftwerk. Mark Mothersbaugh created an alter-ego called Booji Boy to symbolise the infantile regression of the American culture, which was featured in performances and video clips.

Devo gained international success with their gold selling single “Whip It” which became a hit on MTV, being one of the pioneer bands in the use of the video clip. They also pioneered the use of long-form promotional video cassettes with releases such as “The Truth About De-Evolution” and “The Men Who Make The Music”. The band has also directed and produced many of their music videos.

In 1990, Devo split after the release of “Smooth Noodle Maps” but they would still do occasional performances in festivals and short tours. In 2001, members of Devo formed the surf band The Wipeouters, a revision of their first garage band in their early teens.

During the last twenty years, Mark Mothersbaugh has developed a reputed career as a writer and producer for television, video games, animated cartoons and films, releasing in 1985 the compilation “Musik for Insomniaks”. He also runs his company Mutato Muzika, where other members of Devo work as writers and producers.