Your chance to
pose questions
to those at Devo, Inc.




<< Tellus, Devo! Illustration by KRK Ryden © 1981


emailed 12/18/2004
:
Subject: New Protective Gear For Our Times

Q: If Devo were to surface with new material to comment on this time of war and everything else, what would the protective self-effacing gear look like? I have an idea about a tacky black velvet album cover of smoking monkeys in business suits and military uniforms playing cards and on the other side of the cover, the monkeys are violently attacking one monkey who has been eliminated from the game.  What do you think about this elimination fever that has swept our turd-like culture.  Reality TV drives me to a bowl of dirty water. Although, I have to admit, Regis and Donald Trump have great chemistry together.  It reminds me of this organic compound I like to call shit. -- Viadresidents

A: You speak the truth and have answered your own question. -- NUTRA, Devo Inc.



emailed 11/28/2004
:
Subject: You and Maynard

Q: I've been a fan of Tool for quite some time.  Before long, I read their writing on the wall, and I enjoy prying open my third eye, though I know it's still not fully open and will never be.  A while back, when I first "understood" Tool, I read up on the details of the band and their thoughts.  Maynard, their lead singer, mentions you a lot.  He even named his child after you, as I'm sure you know.  I'm new to Devo, and this is the first time I've visited your site, so please forgive me for not knowing what the crap is going on around this place (your site, like spuds and stuff.. I'll figure it out soon, it's fun doing such).  I would just like to know your connection with Maynard, your similarities in philosophy, how you know each other, etc.  Also, it seems you have a severe hatred or the upper class, understandably so with their handle on things.  Personally, I am part of a lower middle class household with a single parent, making all A's in school, and I'm sure at some point I'll go to college and make a six figure salary.  I'd just like you to know that I would never give into greed, that it's only a want to do well at something (I'm always like that.  I love learning new things and being good at them, I'm not some depressed little chump wanting to be good at something)and not to worry about damn taxes or anything.  Maybe there is some support for the idea in the upper class.  I know some who are.  And I know plenty more in "the other two classes" as well.  Ideas? -- from Codylicious26

A: Maynard has a good heart. He understands suffering and injustice and wants to alleviate it whenever possible. He is disgusted with the privileged and educated rich who could help others but instead increase suffering and pain for their short term personal gain. Like Bush and his unholy Cabal they rule through the promulgation of fear. This is unconscionable. He and I agree though our musical styles are very different.
-- Gerald Casale, DEVO



emailed 10/7/2004
:
Subject: Why Devo? Tell me why why why?

Q: Why?  Why oh why oh why oh why oh why oh why?  Why are human beings such crummy creatures?  It's just not swell.  I take a look at myself.  I'm so ugly that when I cry, the tears roll up my face. If I was created in Bobs image, he must be one ugly mother fucker and stupid as shit. Bahh dump boomp! pish (rimshot)  The only good news is that the ancient female carcass that brought me into this ball of confusion, has cut back her smoking to three packs a day... and this is after she spent six hundred dollars for twice the laser therapy.-- Viardresidents

A: I hate to say we told you so but We're all DEVO. -- Gerald V. Casale, Devo Inc.


emailed 10/6/2004
:
Subject: Alan Meyers

Q: Are you guys still friends with Alan Myers?  Boy he was a great drummer for you guys. Why did Gerry kick him out of the band.  In a conversation I had with Mark's mom a few years ago , she told me it was because Alan did not want to tour and Gerry was stubborn.  Please shed some light on this. --gmacias

A: And you believe that?! I assure you that's complete bullshit. I loved Alan's drumming. He hated Lynn drums and machine beats. -- Gerald Casale, DEVO --------P.S. Stubborn about what?


posted 8/12/2004
:
Subject: Devo News

Q: Hey guys! I am hearing all kinds of news of DEVO being broadcast on TV...and upcoming video releases! Specifically, the news is cuirculating in the YAHOO! DEVO group...but Club Devo remains mum on this good news. And as you are DEVO (as are we all), I figured you gentlemen could provide some enlightenment...

Point One:  Devo's recent performance at NYC is supposedly being broadcast on a high-definition cable or satellite channel called, simply, "HDTV" (supposed the channel name, not the acronym)...

Point Two:  Same performance will supposedly be shown on ABC this weekend... Witness:  "The devo show will be aired this Saturday on ABC at 11:35 e.s.t. according the the Summerstage webpage."

Point Three:  A DVD related web-site is reporting that a press-release has been issued concerning an upcoming release from you boys, entitled:  "Live In The Land of the Rising Sun"  (Witness the press release pasted in below...)

Hopefully this is all true!!!

Please respond...  (and if so, maybe you can add it to your news page as I, and others, always check there first for my DEVO news...and this is great news, if true)

Thanks gentlemen!

Dan Myers


http://www.digitallyobsessed.com/showrelease.php3?ID=4695

From: Music Video Distibutors
For Immediate Release - August 19, 2004

Devo - Live in the Land of the Rising Sun: Japan 2003
Available on DVD October 5, 2004 Through Music Video Distributors

Oaks, PA- Music Video Distributors and Devo Inc. are pleased to announce the home viewing release of the Devo - Live in the Land of the Rising Sun: Japan 2003 for worldwide distribution on DVD.

Where do you go in Western influenced, post-industrial, technological society and feel like you're on another planet? Japan of course! Live in the Land of the Rising Sun: Japan 2003 provides a DEVOlutionary impression of the alien experience. 25 years ago as young primates, DEVO experienced the dislocation as men with a plan to change the world before the world changed them. They were making history, and the Japanese were willing subjects: submissive, effusive and generous to a fault. Uncle Sam was calling the shots and they reaped the rewards of hoards of adoring fans.
In the Summer of 2003, DEVO returned as true uncles and fathers, revered for what they did and said right in the first place. But now they were part of history, and culturally, the proverbial shoe was on the other foot. America, truly devolved, was on the decline and Japan was mapping the future. Nevertheless, DEVO was overwhelmed by those who came out to celebrate their belated return. The crowd knew all the words (in English!). They wore red Energy Domes - homemade and bootlegged of course. They followed DEVO through the streets and into their fantasy inspiring stores like "Tokyo Hands" .

"Such incredible people and such incredible irony that they'd still love a band that talks about de-evolution. So, watch this DVD. See for yourself. I never thought I'd say this but there is hope for humans in this world. Herein lies some minor proof." - Gerald V. Casale

Tracklist:

That's Good
Girl U Want
Whip It
Satisfaction
Uncontrollable Urge
Mongoloid
Blockhead
Jocko Homo
Smart Patrol/Mr. DNA
Gut Feeling/Slap Yer Mammy
Gates of Steel
Freedom of Choice
Come Back Jonee

Bonus Features:

Commentary by Gerald V. Casale & Mark Mothersbaugh
Backstage footage of Devo with Japanese press & fans
Devo in Tokyo shopping & conversing with fans
Never before seen footage from 1981

Item# DR-4415
UPC# 022891441595
Street Date 10/05/04
Prebook cut off 09/07/04
Running time 75 minutes
Audio: 5.1
Retail 19.95

A: It's all true. -- NUTRA, Devo Inc.


posted 8/8/2004:
Subject: Just Wondering

Q: Hi -- I'm a Devo fan from way back and I was really enjoying the NY show on HD Net just now.  However, I am also a Republican and I am wondering why there had to be negative jabs against Republicans.  In fact, I don't understand why there has to be any political commentary at all.

Now don't freak out -- I am not an evil right winger denying you your right to free speech.  But I guess when I tune in to see you playing music at a concert -- that's what I am expecting:  you playing music at a concert.  I just don't really care what your political views are -- no matter what they are.  I mean I was just tuning in to see the concert and hear the music.  Isn't that why all those people were there for, too?

Sincerely,

Maureen Leader - maureen.leader@verizon.net

A: It's amazing you can like a band that stands for justice and liberty and science and logic and still vote for an evil regime that wants to destroy what's left of democracy, destroy the separation of church and state, attack the bill of rights, eliminate a woman's right to choose, deny humane scientific research, steal from seniors, destroy the environment to keep oil cronies rich and in short institute a form of Christian fundamentalism that is only slightly less heinous than the authoritarian beliefs of the Taliban. Go ahead and vote for a dim-witted, mean spirited, menial son of a CIA man who is on the wrong side of every issue that matters to the future of humans on the planet earth. This isn't about democrats and republicans (there's really no difference there). This is about the end of humane values in our life time. Do you wear a backwards baseball cap and drive a Hummer 2? Remember! Freedom of choice is what you've got. Freedom from choice is what you want! -- Gerald V. Casale , Devo Inc.


posted 8/8/2004
:
Subject: Portland DEVO Concert August 1, 2004

Q: Hi Spudmasters!

I attended the Portland Oregon Devo concert and have a quick question about Bob 1's guitar. I don't recall which song it was, but he was playing a guitar that had a very narrow body and at the end of the song, the strings of the thing exploded in a flash of fire and light (not really, but fun to pretend). Anyway, what is the name and manufacturer of that guitar.

I have been a huge fan of Devo and even made a replica of that guitar after seeing it in the "Satisfaction" video. My guitar is long gone, but I don't want to make another one, but would rather locate one for sale, but have no Idea what it is called.

PS.  You guys were amazing in concert!  I think probably the most invigorating part of the whole thing was when Mark was Hootin' and Barking interactively with the audience during "Are we Not Men?"

Please return to Portland in the future if your schedule permits.  Needless to say, the audience of the concert were Devo fans who ran a race (or not) to see you guys, not a mass of runners who were merely soaking up a free concert. The world needs your message more than ever!

Darren Davison

A: Thanks, spud. The guitar is a Le Bay. I believe they are still available. -- NUTRA, Devo Inc.


posted 8/2/2004
:
Subject: DEVO Information

Q: What would be, in the opinions of DEVO themselves, the most accurate sources of information regarding the history/mythology/beliefs of DEVO? I've poked through the unofficial DEVO Print Archive, in which there were several intriguing interviews, but I'm looking for places to find out every bit of cold, hard FACT that I can regarding the band. There was a book published recently, but I am unsure of how trustworthy it is, or if it's approved by the members of the band as being reliable. Anyway, yeah, I was wondering what the best sources of information would be.

Another question: The yellow Tyvek jumpsuits. Are they available anywhere, and if so, are they available in a form that isn't in bulk? I've seen a website or two that has them available [but without any sort of ordering process to speak of though...peculiar], but in quantities of around two hundred count. I wouldn't need quite so many, unless I were perhaps planning a DEVO parade/riot or some sort, and while that is quite a happy mental image, it probably won't happen. So yes, any information regarding those would be appreciated as well.

Duty Now For The Future,
Jonathan Solari

A: There is no definitive information site. It would be quite a task. We should endeavor to create it. Other than a semi-accurate time line of events the DEVO book currently available was done without our permission or co-operation. It is full of lies, fantasy and mis-information. The official yellow suits will again become available in the near future. -- NUTRA, Devo Inc.

posted 7/31/2004
:
Subject: You should put a note up on your e-mail/site

Q: Like some others have, saying that you may, or may not, receive a reply from Devo.

Why do I state this? Simple. Had a friend e-mail you 3 times in 6 months. Mr casale replied the frist 2 times, then did not reply there after.

He was upset. I told him these guys are not your (personal) friends. The website is there  like a lot of others, as a form of advertisement(for concerts, etc), and  that they reply maybe once or twice, but if they hear from you over and over aain, they ignore you and hope you quite "spamming' them w/ questions(they get tired of replying to you).

I once did the same thing, but with a guy in another field of entertainment. He repied to 3 of my questions in 4 weeks. But, when I asked something again, he sent me an e-mail expalintg the situation, from his point of view.

It went like this: he said he appreciated the fans, but there's a limit. he said he had other things to do(work), and got tired of silly questions , or babysitting on his website(thus he assigned monitors, to get rid of trouble makers, etc). He said he was just a normal guy, who was famous, but people act like if you reply to a few e-mails, that you are suddenly"Friends", and they write to you as if they knew you all of of your life. he went on a bit more, but he was putting in such a way as to say he was a public figure, and expects people to ask for photos with him or autographs, or an e-mail once in awhile, but not weekly, from same people. He said if you do not "cut them off" right away(ignore e-mails), they bombard him with silly questions that iritate him.

I told my friend this, showed him the e-mail, and said it is all a business. These guys do not know you, so why expect them to write(constantly) to you?

This e-mail, I must admit, is more than my 2nd to you this year. If I hear nothing in return, I half-expect it, and  I Now understand why.

You should state" We do  NOT guarantee a reply, but Devo does read all e-mail'( this is on a few website now, as not to "offend" money spending fans).

I will listen to your stuff, maybe even attend the Chicago show this year. But, it is best to keep the fans and the stars "apart", to a degree, especially with this internet access to e-mail addy's, et al.

Hope ya know what I mean.

JL - DAV


A:
Let no good deed go unpunished. We have no policy. If someone's question is too silly, we'll tell them.
Some e-mails fall through the cracks and yes, Gerald Casale et al, do get so busy they may neglect the
site from time to time. Would they rather get packaged non-answers from people who don't care like most
fan sites? -- NUTRA, Devo Inc.



posted 6/26/2004
:

Q: Jerry,

As a huge fan of your work since I've known there was a DEVO, I must congratulate you and your fellow spuds on the terrific DVD's you've released and the renaissance, if you will, of your music and themes.  And though I won't get to see any of your gigs this year, I'm glad to see that DEVO is still a ongoing musical concern, limited as it may be.  Try to book something in Florida sometime, though.  I know Orlando probably still holds the record (as you said during the Total Devo show I saw) for breaking equipment, but there's still a great big wad of DEVO-tees who would love to see Devo again.

Jerry, as I peruse the net and read many of the old and new articles related to DEVO, as well as the biography, your negativity about the human condition is completely overwhelming, probably more so than anyone currently alive who's not serving a life sentence.  It seems strange, though, because I've run into you briefly several times over the years and have always found you a fairly pleasant guy with a cordial manner, even when faced with obnoxious spuds such as myself demanding autographs and pictures.  I would have thought that anyone as negative as you would have to be a scumbag asshole, yet there you were shakin' hands and kissin' babies at the shows like you were the happiest spud on earth.  Hard to believe that it's the same guy who looks like he's having the time of his life whacking a bass and singing "Mongoloid" telling us that the world is going down the universal crapper and there's nothing anyone can do about it.

So my question to you is how, in a day and age where you feel conditions in the world are even worse now than they were when you were at the Kent State shootings, how do you manage to keep going?  How do you manage to keep whacking that bass with all the fire you had when you were younger with over 50 years of collected de-evolution weighing down your soul?  What brings you enough positive energy to carry on in a world you've come to despise so deeply?  I mean, sure, I see things that depress me and make me believe that you're right, but I still see a lot of things that make me happy and feel like there's hope for the human race.  I'm going to come right out and say it...yes, I believe for the most part it's a beautiful world.  Then again, I live an hour away from Disney World so I guess I would say that.

But whether I agree or disagree with any aspects of your philosophy, your music meant a lot to me as a confused teen spud back in 1978.  There I was, rapidly approaching legal adulthood, thinking I finally had a handle on the way of the world, then here comes DEVO to come along to tell us we didn't know shit.  You were absolutely right, and to this day, no matter how much knowledge I gain, I still don't know shit, so you did your job and did it well.

Jimmy Miller
Deltona, Florida

A:
Thanks. A great letter and a bull's eye at identifying the basic paradox of human life. I keep going because I will not give in to all the anti-human assholes like "W" and Usama who want to exponentially increase human suffering on this planet. I will not do what Kurt Cobain did thereby making their agenda that much easier to accomplish. Go down fighting! Do not be a wimp! Duty now, spuds! -- Gerald Casale


posted 5/28/2004
:

Q: Dear DEVO, I have three questions:
Q1 - In what year were the Pioneer Laserdisk promotions on the DEVO Unexpurgated DVD originally taped?

Q2 - Have you ever noticed the uncanny facial resemblance of the "Turkey Monkey" and the current appointed president of the United States?
Q3: I suppose that De-evolution is for real? -- Gary

A1:
1983
A1: Yes, especially in the simian cranial area. But Turkey Monkey is more intelligent.
A1: Don't suppose. Know it is. Just an observation from the devo-ted. -- NUTRA, Devo Inc.


posted 5/25/2004
:

Q: Dear, Mr. Casale and Devo Inc: My name is Rocky. I am 23 years of age, a drummer in a metal band called VOMIT, and not at all blind to the DE-VO surrounding my everyday life. I am writing you because I have a question and that I support what you are doing for the common person, EDUCATION. The wisdom all of you have been continually giving to the individuals, like myself, (that will hopefully "infect" the collective), makes me want to stand up and fight to the bloody death! Had it not been for your music and videos, my devolving, high school educated mind may not have ever discovered the hell that surrounds us all. By the way, I also live in the oh-so grand state of Utah where the individual voter is "bypassed" because of our electoral college. I am neither a Democrat or Republican. I feel that the 2 part voting system is, simply put, stupid. Especially with this "president" in the big chair. The fact that people, are still going to vote for the asshole is beyond me. *That's only half of it. ALL of the people whom I know that insist on voting for Bush in the upcoming election are doing it because their "families are doing it." Or because they are ignorant to the "beliefs" of all political parties, and "just like guns & money." My Question is this. "How in the hell can I jumpstart these zombies, (my apology, the brains in zombies still FUNCTION on a primordial level!), brain-dead people into finding the Freethinking "ON" Button and depressing it? In short, how can I help in both my community and my country?
-- Rocky


A:
It's too late. Humans are by and large despicable and have less entitlement to life on this planet than the average family dog. The fact that 50 million privileged, well fed, SUV driving morons could vote for a cretin on the wrong side of every issue that matters to the future of this planet is proof enough of what I say. Save yourself, play hard and get good at what you do. -- Nutra, Devo Inc.


posted 5/14/2004
:

Q: Dear Devo, I am Welly. I am 15 years old and about 2 years ago i discovered Devo. You men behind the muzak changed my life. I realized we're all devo and something must be done to stop this hindering of the human mind. Though the attempt may seem futile with mongoloids like Bush in office, I am sure that if Spuds around the globe join together we can stop this devolution. In order to do this though, your word needs to be spread...and I have noticed how difficult it is to locate any of your recordings, like Duty now for the Future and Shout. The whole point I'm trying to get at is... Does Devo have any plans to re-release any albums? Devolution is real -- Welly

A:
Warners owns our masters. We have no control. They are part of the Devolution process that you are so keenly and rightly aware of. -- Gerald V. Casale, Devo Inc.


posted 5/13/2004
:

Q: Dear DEVO, I was wondering, will there ever be a Recombo DNA Vol. 2? The current edition of Recombo DNA is fantastic, especially the Freedom Of Choice demos and the unreleased tracks from the Oh No! It's DEVO era. Please treat us all to more DEVO. Keep that spud rolling. We've got our DVDs and a book, as well as upcoming concert events. How about some audio? Speaking of upcoming concert events, could I make a request? I think that, what with the current state of the world and all, playing Beautiful World would be absolutely perfect. If you only want to play it once, let it loose in NY on 7/23. Thank you. ~ Rick Vodicka

A: I totally agree about BW. Recombo DNA 2 is not likely but you never know. -- Gerald V. Casale, Devo Inc.



posted 5/6/2004
:

Q: Gentlemen, I forgot all about you guys, please accept my apologies.  When I was about 11, I saw an ad for a live concert, I think it was in Buffalo, it began "what is DEVO?" followed by some clips from "Satisfaction".  From that day forward I was seriously obsessed.  I'm sure you've heard it all before, I was a loner kid, thought the world was insane, finally I had the proof. But alas, the years go by, the vinyl gets boxed up, and wouldn't you know it, I forgot all about you.  Until about a year ago I got myself a turntable, put on Q: Are We Not Men? and suddenly it all came back to me. This last year has been amazing, with the release of the two DVDs and the book my appreciation for DEVO has grown even more than before. The live DVD made me realize how you guys kick serious ass live.  During the past year, I've seen Wire and Kraftwerk live and I don't know if it's just a coincidence, but these "older" guys seem to outdo just about every "new" act out there.  I saw Interpol, good band, enjoy their album, but Wire blew these guys away.  Judging by the live DEVO DVD, you would blow away Wire...I never had the chance to see DEVO live when I was younger, but I am making a trip to NY especially to see you guys this summer. Quick question, (unlike the rest of the message, sorry) when I had a copy of Duty Now on cassette many years ago, I always assumed the sound drop outs during a few songs, most noticeable in Strange Pursuits, was magnetic damage to my tape, but lo and behold, it exists on the CD version as well, what is the story with this?  Is this something that could not be corrected in a remaster? (hint,hint). Love you guys.. -- Rob - Toronto, Canada

A: I don't remember the sound drop outs on Duty Now. Really? Weird. Yes we can still fill a spoon live and will do so this summer . -- Gerald V. Casale, Devo Inc.


posted 4/27/2004
:

Q: Knowing everything you know about how crappy everything really is, how do you cope? What are we supposed to do? Why don't people get your music? Why do people like George Bush? I find it hard to believe that EVERYONE else is just MUCH stupider. Can't I just dig a hole? Or move to another planet? HUH? -- Damie Green

A: The hole has been dug, and we're in it. There us no escape. Homicide? Suicide? Don't let the evil spuds win. Fight until the last shovel of dirt comes down upon your head. Good spuds will sprout another day. -- Nutra, Devo Inc.


posted 4/26/2004
:

Q: Greetings, all. Not being able to attend any of your concerts this year, I was wondering are you planning to webcast any footage live or recorded of any of these concerts. I think you might be surprised at the response to this idea and it may lead you to consider a global tour. I truly believe DEVO is about to be BIG again and this time get the reward it has always deserved. Its been 24 years since I last had  the privilege of seeing DEVO perform live and I would dearly love to see them perform again. -- Yours in hope, ROXY

A: Actually, we are trying to get some media interest for the upcoming shows. -- Nutra, Devo Inc.



posted 4/21/2004
:

Q: Hey, Spuds. With all the cheese-monkeys that are running around ruining what used to be called music, when you are guys going to step up to the proverbial plate and deliver some new tunes and a tour? And don't give us any of that tired garbage about being burned out or experiencing writer's cramp.  Did Picasso whine about too much paint?  Did Da Vinci develop a fear of paper?  Did Mohamar Khaddafi complain about poor sunglass styles? NO! -- JC

A: You are preaching to the converted here. -- Gerald V. Casale, Devo Inc.



posted 4/17/2004
:

Q: I have two Devo videos:The Men Who Make the Music and the other title I don't remember. One day, I decided to show the videos to my 2 year old and my 3 year old girls. Now, they are hooked. After watching the video for the first time, the 2 year old says non-stop "Devo dad, Devo". And, after having had watched it about 20 times, the kids say "whip it" and they love Boogie Boy. I wake the 2 year old up one morning, and the first thing out of her mouth "Devo" What do you recommend, shock therapy, Pat Boone videos? -- David Warn, age 40, Devoid since the early 80's.

A: Don't let the Bush administration know about this. You may lose your children. -- Gerald V. Casale, Devo Inc.



posted 4/12/2004
:

Q: My 18 month old son loves Raffi. Maybe it's a little bit of my influence, but he also loves DEVO. After watching many hours of Raffi, I see some striking similarities between the two. What are your thoughts on Raffi? Is Raffi covertly part of Devo? -- Glenn B.

A: Yes, Raffi is the devil in disguise and DEVO is god disguised as a clown show. -- Nutra, Devo Inc.


posted 4/8/2004
:

Q: I was wondering your opinion on how homosexuality fits into De-evolution? -- Jeff Bowers

A: Some of the best and brightest humans are homosexual. By not procreating they unwittingly help the sub-human wad to tip the scales further toward an increasingly devolved wad of morons incapable of critical, analytical thought. -- Nutra, Devo Inc.



posted 4/1/2004
:

Q: Respectfully request info on what the origins are of the mask that I believe is called "boogie boy"? I bought your DVD and during the first video the keyboardist is wearing that mask. My wife made me turn it off because it was "disturbing". Thank you. -- Ron Seattle, WA

A: Divorce your wife. It's a baby mask for god sake. How about when "W" comes on the tube? I bet she let's you watch that horror show. –- Nutra, Devo Inc.


posted 3/27/2004
(questions from
Frank DeCarlo):

Q: Please settle a bet. What were the filming locations for the last scene of your "Freedom of Choice" video (where a group of people were walking down a sidewalk), and also for the "Jocko Homo" version released on Sony's "We're All Devo" compilation in 1984? Is it a stage set or a college classroom?

A: Larchmont Village in LA, CA for "Freedom of Choice" and Kent State University's Governance Chambers for "Jocko Homo". -- GVC/Devo, Inc.

Q: One last question, what was the source of the animated radiation poisoning clips shown at the tail end of "Beautiful World"? You know, of the gray spots appearing on the guy's hair and hands. The clips seem to date from the late 1950's but I can't find them.

A: Public domain footage from an Atomic Energy Commission film explaining radiation. -- GVC/Devo, Inc.


posted 3/22/2004
(questions from
Bruce Griffiths):

Q: Greetings Club Devo - How wonderful to happen upon your site. The story, in a nutshell: we're planning
to be in the U.S. between July 9-23 and thought, "Let's see if Devo are playing anywhere during that time."
Lo and behold, discovered your website and further discovered:
New York City, July 22nd (Thursday) -CENTRAL PARK
To that end, wondering if you are able to provide a little more info? Specifically, what time are Devo playing?

A: DEVO will play at sundown. -- GVC/Devo, Inc.

Q: Are they the only band on?

A: There are other bands earlier in the day such as Flock of Seagulls and Tone Loc. -- GVC/Devo, Inc.

Q: I'm guessing it's the New York Marathon? Is it?

A: No, it's a special Nike event. -- GVC/Devo, Inc.


Q: How 'certain' are you that someone not involved in the run will be able to gain access to the concert area? (Has this been the case before?)

A: Runners are allowed to sign for two non-running guests but availability is limited. -- GVC/Devo, Inc.

Q: Is there usually a concert afterwards for the citizens of NYC
(which anyone can attend, or is it fenced off)?


A: Access is restricted but there will be a DEVO concert in Central Park the following night open
to the public. -- GVC/Devo, Inc.


posted 3/15/2004
(questions from
Tom Hayes):

Q: On the question of video footage and shows that have been taped I did not see a mention of the Palace Shows in 1998 that were used in NITBT. It was a long time ago, but I do remember at least 3 film cameras at both shows. Does any of that footage survive?

A: We've never seen such footage. -- GVC
/Devo, Inc.

Q: You mention several new DVDs poised for release, will the Pioneer Laserdisc Demo ever see the light of day?

A: It's included on the "Complete Truth About...." DVD
-- GVC/Devo, Inc.

Q: Any plans for a Karaoke disc of Devo tunes for us drunken spuds?

A: Not a bad idea.
-- GVC
/Devo, Inc.

Q: Was smooth noodle maps ever released on vinyl?

A: Yes but it's impossible to find. Very few were pressed.
-- GVC
/Devo, Inc.

Q: Is David an "official" member again? (and does he still have his Sammy Davis Jr/Godzilla/condom collections?)

A:
He still has his collections and is a DEVO honorary member. -- GVC/Devo, Inc.

Q: I heard that Gerry remixed a song last year for some band (I don't know which) where he added a verse for Going Under. Is this true, and which band?

A:
I did 4 re-mixes of Kenna's song, Freetime and put Nutra's opening monologue from Time Out for Fun in the Hello Kenna re-mix. -- GVC/Devo, Inc.


posted 3/12/2004
:

Q: Dear Devo, when oh when will we get a new studio album out?? I think I can speak for all spuds when I say, WE WANT NEW DEVO!!!! -- John M.

A: No definite plans yet - but the uncontrollable urge is still there. -- DEVO, Inc.


posted 3/9/2004:

Q: Dear Devo, How do you feel about karaoke? Like the fact that drunk people around the world are
getting up and singing "Whip It" in karaoke bars? I ask because i'm launching a new site about karaoke: www.karaokeforever.com, and will have a section about how singers/bands feel about people performing their songs at karaoke. So please let me know YOUR thoughts! Thanks!! -- Bob, karaokeforever.com


A: It's a perfect example of Devolution in action. If a song inspires people to mangle it, it must be good. I'm glad people can turn around and entertain the artist sometimes. -- Gerald Casale, DEVO.


posted 3/2/2004:

We'll Tell YOU, Devo!:
Greetings and good day – I’m forwarding this to you on behalf of my wife, Lori Mumpower.
She just wrote an open-letter to President Bush regarding his recent efforts to aggressively
guarantee his own defeat in November of 2004. Spud, indeed.
.....................................................................
Mr. President,

My name is Lori Mumpower, and I am a graduate student at the University of Central Florida.
And, I am not a Republican.

I am not a Republican because I believe the default position for Republicans is fewer taxes, at the
expense of the welfare of our country's citizens. I am not a Republican because I do not believe that
more government is necessarily bad. I am not a Republican because I believe in the total separation of church and state, I believe in fewer tax dollars spent in ill-defined military efforts, and I believe in
stronger governmental policy toward the environmental protection of our air, water, and land.

If I had any doubts about being a Republican before you announced your ill-concieved plan for a constitutional amendment banning homosexual marriages, I am certain of it now. You claimed in your
recent speech that the "union of a man and woman is the most enduring human institution, honoring - honored and encouraged in all cultures and by every religious faith." Yes, Mr. President, you and your speech writers are correct. But what you fail to mention are the various reasons that marriage has
existed in human history. Marriage, historically, has had everything to do with property and the
continuation of blood lines. Is this the kind of marriage that we want to protect with a constitutional amendment? Is it all about money?

I'm certain that you would disagree, that contemporary notions of marriage are not so base as to be concerned with money, but have to do with love and mutual respect. In fact, these are the qualities
that guide us to choose our marriage partners. So shouldn't a contemporary notion of marriage reflect
the various ways in which we love and respect one another, and not be solely based on the tax dollars
that would be denied homosexual married couples?

I fear instead that you are making a moral argument. I am not a Republican because Republicans often consider that their own morality should be that of every citizen, and that of the state. You cannot
legislate morality, Mr. President, but you can try. And, your recent speech has managed to galvanize Democrats with record speed, which was previously thought impossible.

So next November if you (or the staffer reading this) are wondering what happened, why young people came out in droves to vote for the Democratic nominees, why recounts will be unnecessary, you can remember my letter, and the many like it I am sure, that explained to you where you went wrong.

Sincerely, Lori Mumpower
mumpower@bacchusland.com
........................................
Thanks for your time – and excellent work on the site. There is much work to be done this year…
The Idiot Pinheads must be stopped.

-- Janson S. Jones
Modernity & Theory/Graduate Studies/Department of English/University of Oklahoma


posted 3/2/2002:

Q: 'Tis me, Scott Pennock, yet again. I read in a Tell Us Devo posting that you're slated to have a DVD come out in the Spring. Could you give me some quick info about its contents and what company's going to put it out? If this news is solid, I will be one happy spud. -- Duty Now, Scott

A: Actually there will be (4) DVD's. The Complete Truth About De-evolution, The Men Who Make the Music, Butch Devo and the Sundance Gig and A Devo Lollapalooza! The first two titles are compilations of our video work plus interstitial comedy and satire. The second two are very different types of live concerts from 1996. -- Nutra

posted 2/20/02:

Q: Devo put on such great live shows that many of us "fans" who followed them throughout their band "life" find ourselves on e-bay looking for bootleg videos of tours. Can the club "dig up" video from each tour and offer it as part of the "cool stuff?" -- Khaussman@aol.com

A: Unfortunately, there was very little documentation of DEVO's legendary shows. The Freedom of Choice tour was never filmed except for three songs that appear in Urgh! A Music War. The New Traditionalists tour was filmed but a technical disaster with electrical shorts forced the footage into an insurance claim - it was destroyed by the insurance company. The OH NO It's DEVO tour with the rear projection suffered a similar fate. It was taped once only by a company attempting a 3D satellite broadcast. It didn't work, it looked bad and DEVO had to sue them. The footage was confiscated by the court. That leaves the 1996 Lollapalooza show - stripped down and bare bones it was shot with 10 video cameras. The company who did it went into bankruptcy and the footage has been only recently recovered by the band after years of fighting. It will appear on DVD in the late spring of 2002 along with all of DEVO's video and film work. As you can see the world of Rock n' Roll lives up to it's sleazy reputation. -- Duty Now for the Future, Nutra.

posted 2/7/02:


Q: Who was supposed to produce DEVO's first album, and why did Brian Eno end up producing it?
-- Anonymous

A: We have received a run on this question. Rather than answer it 100 times, here is the answer posted for all to see. David Bowie was supposed to produce DEVO's album. His movie acting schedule conflicted with our recording schedule. Finally we couldn't wait for him any longer. He asked Brian Eno to come see us play at Max's Kansas City in NYC. Brian liked what he saw and we liked Brian and the work he'd done with Bowie on the album, "Low". So, we went to Connie Planck's studio in Germany where they recorded "Low" and recorded "Are We Not Men?" with Brian. -- Gerald V. Casale

posted 2/5/02:


Q1: Please Post this On TELLUS DEVO: I , like many eager spuds, out there don't get enough DEVO. So, I appreciate the tech tv spot, It was great to see de-evolution still being preached. (We can all ready see it around us.) QUESTIONS? Yes , I have a few: Has A BEHIND THE MUSIC Been done on DEVo, yet? Not a where are they now, measley little segment, but the full deal. I watch it constantly, hoping to catch DEVO: BEHIND THE MUSIC, But,Alas, All I get Is Hammer, Hall and Oates, and Boy George. -- Frank Rorrer

A: No, there hasn't been any DEVO "Behind the Music" on the order of those shows. We don't fit the formulaic cliche of anti-intellectual, drug addled musicians who lost it all and came back. We were conceptual, organized and articulate. We never amassed a big pile to lose because mainstream radio and press never liked us - we really were new and different.. Our message didn't fit the corporate propaganda of fake nihilism and rebellion. Lastly we quit before crashing and burning and made the mistake of not coming back (Mark's decision). You see, hardly the story that the powersthat be at VH1 want to tell? -- GVC

Q2: Loved the rhino release RECOMBO DNA. When can we look forward to some more unreleased material, OR better yet, A NEW 2002 Album! Yes, Brand New! I know you guys have got some new material mutating around somewhere! there is too much POP bubblegum on the radio now, The truth should be told! -- Frank Rorrer

A: I personally would love to create new DEVO, there's so much left to say. However, others in the band have lost that fighting spirit. -- Gerald V. Casale (P.S. Contrary to rumor, there is not a lot of unreleased material lying about.)

Q3: I recently finished A homemade CD and want to just pass it along, I think you guys would appreciate the concept., No strings, it would just be cool to share it with you.. in some ways, it is similar to your early concepts, And considering the influence Devo has had on me musically, It would be an honor for you guys to have a copy.(And if you did not like It, The CD case makes a great drink coaster for those late night Mutato recording sessions. And, Hey, FREE music, you can't beat that, even if it sucked ;) Any way, If I sent A copy would you guys check it out?

A: We would be very interested to hear your music. Mail it to Mutato Muzika, 8760 Sunset Blvd, LA, CA 90069. -- Duty now for the Future, Nutra

Q4: I saw a reference on you guys in an early 80's movie called Jekyll and Hyde...Together again;
Sort of a disco new wave movie. Hyde busts into a nightclub where there are two devotees in the energy domes. It is a twisted comedy, I think paramount made it, released around '82 on video. Kind of feels like A Troma flick.

A: Wow, to be included in such profound creative expression! -- Nutra

posted 12/7/01:

Q: Is the following internet post the truth or a hoax?:
When we heard that a Devo tribute album had been released, we had to buy it as soon as possible. Brian Eno's production work was an especially good sign; Eno is known for producing some of the best music of the past twenty years, including Devo's first album, Q. ARE WE NOT MEN? A. WE ARE DEVO! Eno did not let us down this time. Like all good tribute albums, BEAUTIFUL MUTANTS has moments of genius and brilliantly odd combinations side by side with dismal failures. Fortunately for devotees of the spud boys, the successes far outnumber the failures.

Kraftwerk kicks off the album with their rendition of "Devo Corporate Anthem." Though it is at heart a straight cover, Kraftwerk makes it essentially theirs, which makes perfect sense considering how much Devo owes to Kraftwerk themselves. Following the Corporate Anthem is one of the few real disappointments of BEAUTIFUL MUTANTS: Elvis Costello's cover of "Baby Doll." Though he rarely records covers, Elvis proved he could acquit himself on one with "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" from his album KING OF AMERICA. But unfortunately, he didn't live up to the promise of "Baby Doll." The collaboration of Suzanne Vega and DNA was a smash success for Vega's "Tom's Diner," and it works equally well when they team up to perform "Post-Post Modern Man." Expect to hear this, the first single release from BEAUTIFUL MUTANTS, in hip dance clubs everywhere. Next comes k.d. lang's powerful rendition of "Come Back Jonee." Devotees who remember Debbie Harry's lackluster performance of this song on Saturday Night Live in 1981 will find that lang has finally done "Come Back Jonee" justice. Following k.d. lang, Dolly Parton performs a lively version of "Worried Man," the little-known track Devo recorded for the film THE HUMAN HIGHWAY. This selection is one of the most bizarre on the album precisely because of its complete lack of strangeness. Brian Eno must have an inspiring effect on David Bowie: on his cover of "Mongoloid" Bowie (with his current band Tin Machine) displays more talent than he has shown since he made the album LOW with Eno in 1977. This track reminds us how good Bowie was before he went commercial, and it's nice to know that Tin Machine isn't totally devoid of talent. This is followed by a standard grunge version of "Gut Feeling" by Pearl Jam. We hear that "Gut Feeling" will be the second single release for BEAUTIFUL MUTANTS, which is a shame because it's one of the weaker tracks on the album. Still, grunge fans will probably go wild. The Japanese band Shonen Knife have become a favorite of tribute albums with good reason. The trio from Osaka belt out a fairly straightforward cover of "Girl U Want" with as much energy as the original. However, the Knife version has a raw edge reminiscent of Devo's earlier work on Q. ARE WE NOT MEN? A. WE ARE DEVO! Next, They Might Be Giants, also frequently tapped for tribute albums, give us the quirky cleverness they have become famous for with their slowed down version of Devo's cover of "Secret Agent Man." By using only an accordion and acoustic guitar for accompaniment, the two Johns give the tune a somber, almost ballad-like quality.

The Cure round out side 1 with their distinctive version of "Too Much Paranoias." This song could have been written for a younger Robert Smith, and he does his best to live up to it, leaving behind the overly polished sound of the Cure's recent material in favor of the harsher quality this little ditty deserves. They also don't waste any time: this is the album's shortest track, clocking in at a mere 56 seconds.

Side 2 begins with Tom Jones camping it up for "Beautiful World," continuing his campaign to prove to the world that he's still hip. Expect this to get massive airplay on college radio. Next comes the track that has caused the excessive controversy surrounding BEAUTIFUL MUTANTS: "I Desire" covered by REM. Fans of Devo will recall that the lyrics of "I Desire" are from a poem written by John Hinkley for Jodie Foster. Rumor has it that Devo's recording this song (for OH NO! IT'S DEVO) caused such an uproar that it eventually led to their split with Warner Bros. Records. It took the clout of REM to get "I Desire" added to this tribute, which is all the more remarkable since REM is also a Warner Bros. product. Or maybe it just proves yet again that Warner Bros. executives suddenly forget their scruples when there's money to be made. Perhaps REM should have let sleeping dogs lie, but maybe their gamble will pay off in increased sales rather than the threatened boycott.

The Sugarcubes slow the pace down a bit with their version of one of our personal favorites, "Love without Anger." We are pleased to report that Bjork and her band, as usual, do not disappoint. Her voice releases the true haunting soul lurking beneath the surface of the original, enough so that at almost 6 minutes in length it still does not grow tiresome. Following in a similar vein is the unexpected treat of this record: Joni Mitchell singing a light, jazzy version of "The Day my Baby Gave me a Surprise." Mitchell is not someone you'd expect to appear on a Devo tribute album (but we have to admit we didn't expect Dolly Parton either). For this, one of Devo's few ballads, she is the perfect choice.

Oddly, several of the female artists are clustered together on this album towards the end. But whatever the reason, the British band Lush, fronted by the vacuous yet vocally talented Miki Berenyi, next lends their shimmery wall-of-sound effect to "Jerkin' Back and Forth." While it is lovely, this cut sadly stands out due to Lush's apparent inability to see the humor inherent in Devo's music.

Neil Young is back on top again, and he lends his status of living legend to BEAUTIFUL MUTANTS with a gratifying cover of "Jocko Homo." Of all the tracks, this one displays just how much influence Devo has had on other musicians. Listen to him belt out the signature chant of "Jocko Homo," and suddenly several of Young's offbeat little albums of the mid-1980's finally make sense to us. Speaking of aging rockers, we find it somewhat ironic that over the past few years Henry Rollins has become some sort of elder statesman of hardcore, just as Young has been dubbed the godfather of grunge. Like Young, Rollins still has not lost his hard edge, which his Rollins Band demonstrates by ripping through "Clockout" with complete authority. Deplorable in comparison, The Red Hot Chili Peppers are not nearly so satisfying with their rendition of "Uncontrollable Urge." Obviously, these boys need to take more lessons from the masters who precede them.

John Wesley Harding turned out a stellar performance on the Roky Erickson tribute album with "If You Have Ghosts," and he does no less here. As he did for Erickson, Harding dug up one of the more obscure Devo tracks, "The Shadow" (from TOTAL DEVO), for his contribution. Using a less well known song allows him a better showcase for his delightfully cynical yet upbeat style.

Finally, the spud boys themselves prove that they never lost their sense of humor. The crowning acheivement of the album is a cover of "Weird Al" Yankovic's Devo parody, "Dare to be Stupid," purportedly by Dove, the Band of Love. This is known to be an alias Devo had used early in their career, and the vocals are clearly sung by Gerald Casale. Unfortunately the liner notes give no clue as to which members of Devo performed on this track, so we cannot confirm or deny that Mark Mothersbaugh had anything to do with this recording. Yet Mark or no Mark, this spirited version of what could be the perfect Devo song leaves us desperate for more.

A: Unfortunately it's a hoax. -- Gerald V. Casale

posted 11/19/01:

Q: I have been a big fan since 1980 I was 15, Duty Now for the Future being my favorite. Here's my question:
Jim Ryan says he attended Kent State with you boys and told of a few of the antics, such as Jerry wearing a lab coat to a dance decorated with soiled tampons. Also that Mark wore the mutant baby mask his entire senior year. One day back in late 89 or early 90 Jim came running into the boiler room all exited saying "you'll never guess what, DEVO is in town. I just heard that they were at the Piano Bar in Palm Springs so I went racing out there to see if I could catch'em and I just missed them. I asked the bartender if they had been there and she said 'yes and they were disgusting, they took over the whole bar and even worse the piano, they all sang a song called SUCK MY DICK!'" Man I wish I could have been there that would have been great. It would have been great to see the expressions of non-approval mixed with those for whom the wink was in. Well I have not seen Jim since he disappeared with his common law wife Sunshine who had red hair back in about 90. My main question is do any of you really remember this guy or had the telemarketing and story telling finally gone to his head. There were four of us in that room working entirely on commission. Although 3% of the proceeds went to good causes we were perhaps the most ruthless and barbaric and smooth phone freaks of all time especially after our lunchtime doobie and a few bottles of Mickey's Big Mouth we got even smoother. Thats ok because there weren't any rules back then. Anyhow please respond one way or the other. One other thing, is there any way I can still order the DEVO leisure suit and the radiation suit as advertised in the original Freedom of Choice album? The red radiation hat too and the New Traditionalist wig. -- A dedicated mutant forever, Patrick Shane White - Temple, TX.

Q: It's all true except for one item. The Yellow suit is no longer available. -- Duty now for the future, Nutra

posted 11/19/01:

Q: Wh