DEVO Critiques Rock and Roll for Simplistic Ideas
DEVO, the iconic band known for their unique approach to music and art, explores their identity in a new Netflix documentary. Founders Jerry Casale and Mark Mothersbaugh discuss their decades-long quest for recognition beyond the clichés of rock and roll.
DEVO’s Identity and Artistic Vision
Throughout their fifty-year career, DEVO has struggled to convey their true essence to an audience more interested in sensational topics like drugs and sex. “We were always trying to explain the substance and inspiration behind the body of work,” Jerry Casale reflects. Meanwhile, Mark Mothersbaugh adds, “People didn’t want to talk about what we wanted to talk about.”
The band has long championed ideas of evolution and regression. Rather than conform to conventional rock and roll themes, they emphasize a narrative of mutation and societal critique. “Rock and roll has two or three very basic dumb ideas,” Jerry states plainly.
The Documentary and Its Insights
Directed by Chris Smith, the documentary encapsulates DEVO’s misunderstood legacy as artists who merged conceptual art with popular music. Despite being years in development and facing various delays, the documentary serves as a new lens through which to view DEVO’s story. “It’s just one version,” Jerry notes about the film’s perspective.
Historical Roots and Influences
A key moment in the documentary traces the band’s origins to Kent State University, where Jerry was a student during the tragic events of 1970. This experience did not ignite a punk fury; instead, it inspired experimentation. “I wanted to create a sound for the ’70s like Hendrix or Beefheart did for the ’60s,” Mark explains.
With influences ranging from Italian Futurists to Dadaists, DEVO sought to redefine musical expression. “The modern orchestra doesn’t include the instruments that reflect our industrial culture,” Mark asserts, emphasizing their innovative approach.
The Cosmic Devolution Tour
DEVO is currently touring alongside the B-52s and Lene Lovich under the creatively-titled Cosmic Devolution Tour. Jerry describes this tour as a way to present “a sugar coating on de-evolution,” suggesting a balance between their serious themes and the joy of performance.
- Tour Name: Cosmic Devolution Tour
- Supporting Acts: B-52s, Lene Lovich
- Tour Focus: Positive mutation and unique artistic vision
A Unique Legacy
As they reflect on their past, DEVO acknowledges the challenges of being misinterpreted over the years. They hope to share a more complete narrative, even as albums like “Smooth Noodle Maps” and “Something for Everybody” receive limited recognition. “There are four songs on Something for Everybody that are as strong as ‘Freedom of Choice,’” Jerry mentions, illustrating some of their overlooked work.
As they continue to perform, the message remains clear: DEVO aims not to imitate their influences but to embody a pioneering spirit in music. “We never wanted to imitate our influences,” Mark declares. “We wanted to be them.”
