The 1980’s pioneer synth-rock band DEVO, that gave us those red flowerpots (a.k.a. “energy-domes”) that they wore on their heads and their signature phrase Are we not men, we are DEVO is back on tour this year. DEVO stands for (The De-Evolution Band) just in case your wondering!
The only exposure, and greatest memory, of the band was way back when they played Massey Hall in the early 80’s.
My brother took me to a show and we had seats on the first balcony, first row centre/right. It was my first concert that my brother Tim took me to. At one part of the night, there was this guy beside us that was passing around his binoculars. I thought that from our vantage point we didn’t need to use them but when it was passed to me, I said why not! As I placed the spectacles up to my face, smoke was coming out of the right eye lens … do I need to say anymore?
In the middle of the show the lights went down and there was a low repetitive drone sound coming from the band. All you could see on stage was the lights from their amps or on stage computers. This went on for about 2 minutes then in the balcony above us this flash pot went off! It was the lead singer from the band (Mark Mothersbaugh) hanging from a rope with a single spot light on him!
He proceeded down the rope to our balcony. Mark then undid his belt and started whipping members of the audience! They were falling all over the place, wow! Then he went over the first balcony onto the floor and continued whipping more in attendance. I recall seeing this older couple with wild hair, weird clothing and rolling around on the ground like they were having a seizure.
I wish the band well and if you get a chance to see these crazy kidz when they come to your neck of the woods go out and see them! Just watch out for Mark’s belt.
Keep on Jammin’
woah, that’s nice. i love this band. make me feel like nostalgia
That’s cool info that Devo stands the the De-evolution band. Kind of ironic though because i always thought Devo were ahead of their time. I loved the album with Whip it, and Girl you want.
Feeling nostalgia about this band is exactly what a lot people say when I bring up in the bands name in public! those guys are really entertaining to see live!
Keep on Jammin’ Score Piano
That’s what I thought when I heard what Devo really mean Austin wedding bands! Do you play any of their tunes? You really should because your looks like a band that could do any other songs justice!
Awesome Devo story. The binoculars was the best part.
And yeah; it’s great that Devo have decided to go back out on the road. It always makes me feel proud of bands when they don’t let the fear of not constantly originating get in the way of just simply doing what they do best.
I couldn’t of said it better Fred!
Just recorded and played Whip It for a project my kid had a school. teacher asked to keep the CD as she really liked it. Some pretty cool music back then
Damn straight NailFungusrelief!