My knowledge of Devo, and Mark Mothersbaugh in particular, has been growing exponentially over the past months as I worked for Mothersbaugh helping to archive decades worth of his own artwork. I ventured deep into the mind of a respected, creative genius, and was amazed at Mark’s social insights. His postcard collection is an amazing feat of artistic intellect.
(postcard scan courtesy of Mutato)
(Books on books filled with postcards spanning the last 4 decades)
With the unfortunate passing of original member Robert Casale, or Bob 2, the band decided to put together a once-in-a-lifetime tour composed entirely of the earliest Devo works, many of which had only ever been performed in a basement over 40 years ago, with all of the tour proceeds to go to Bob 2’s family.
(Cover of the 2013 “Volume 1” vinyl pressing)
I heard the buzz in the office about a “Hardcore Devo” tour and immediately freaked. I am a younger Devo fan, but I recall early in high school wanting to dig in to the Devo catalog. I took to the internet and found Volume 1 and 2 of these strange 4-track basement recordings that were released in 1990 called Hardcore Devo. The albums spanned the formative years of Devo, 1974-1977, well before hitting the Billboard charts in 1980. Only recently, in 2013, were the “Hardcore Devo” albums pressed on vinyl. MIND FUCKING BLOWN. So, needless to say, I was very amped at the news of a “Hardcore Devo” tour.
Over the next couple months, I got to sit in the basement of Mutato Muzika and quietly work as the men of Devolution worked to recreate their early sounds. This culminated into what was an out of this world live experience for any fan of raw, HARDCORE music. Not to mention the kooky fans, crying ex-wives, dancing drunk wives, Fred Armison, and an awesome introduction from Jed the Fish.
Songs included: “Space Girl Blues,” “Stop Look and Listen, “Jocko Homo,” “Soo Bawls,” “Midget,” “Satisfaction,” and “Uncontrollable Urge.”
Thanks Devo for a wonderful experience! And thanks hanabones for helping me a bunch with the photos!
