Devo: Live 1980 (2005)
Are We Not Men?
By Jeffrey M. Anderson
Buy Devo: Live 1980 on DVD.
Many would consider Devo a one-hit-wonder band, based on the phenomenal
success of their 1980 single "Whip It." But in reality, the Akron, Ohio
band was part of a new movement in music, based more on technology and
intelligence than on sex and drugs (others cut from the same cloth
include The B-52s, the Talking Heads, Oingo Boingo and the Residents).
They are worthy of a deeper look, and this new DVD provides that look.
A great opening crawl -- a la Star Wars -- explains that the name
Devo comes from "devolution," which the band felt America was doing
after the election of Reagan. The crawl argues that we have continued to
de-evolve, and that the presidency of George W. Bush proves it.
From there, we get nothing but concert, more watchable than the usual
shows, and with excellent sound. Devo puts on an energetic show, working
up a sweat, but never breaking their deadpan persona. The show
incorporates weird costume changes and lighting as well as video. It
kicks off with a powerhouse rendition of "Whip It," and it's not too
long before the trained ear will begin recognizing other great songs:
"Girl U Want," "Secret Agent Man," "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction,"
"Gates of Steel" and "Jocko Homo" as well as 14 other tracks.
DVD Details: Best of all, some magical new technology allows
the viewer to flip the DVD over for a CD soundtrack of the very same
show! Other extras include a clip from a more recent show, and a trailer
for a second Devo DVD.
Starring: Jerry Casale, Mark Mothersbaugh, Bob Casale, David Kendrick, Bob Mothersbaugh, Jim Mothersbaugh, Alan Myers
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Running Time: 75 minutes
Date: September 10, 2005
