Must-See Documentaries About Devo

Unveiling the Pioneers of New Wave

For fans of the iconic new wave band Devo, documentaries offer a unique and engaging way to explore the group's history, influence, and creative endeavors. These films provide behind-the-scenes access and in-depth interviews that shed light on the band's journey from their origins in Akron, Ohio to their mainstream success. By watching these documentaries, viewers can gain a comprehensive understanding of Devo's impact on music and popular culture.

Documentaries about Devo capture the essence of their subversive style, innovative music, and distinctive visual identity. These films not only highlight the band's well-known hits but also delve into the deeper themes of de-evolution and social commentary that have defined their work. With expert storytelling and rare footage, these documentaries are a must-see for both long-time fans and newcomers wanting to learn more about one of the most influential bands of the late 20th century.

1) The Complete Truth About De-Evolution (1993)

Devo's "The Complete Truth About De-Evolution" is a must-watch for enthusiasts of the band's unique blend of music and visual art.

Released in 1993, this collection assembles their music videos from 1976 to 1990.

Devo was a groundbreaking New Wave band known for their theory of de-evolution, critiquing corporate culture through their art.

The video anthology includes iconic tracks and showcases Devo's experimentation with the music video format.

From the pre-MTV days, these videos are essential viewing for anyone interested in the pre-to-post-punk scene.

For more information, visit the Wikipedia page or the IMDB page.

2) Devo: We're All Devo!

"Devo: We're All Devo!" (1983) is a significant exploration of the band's early years. This documentary provides a close look at Devo's unique ideology and creative process.

The film captures the quirky essence of the band. It features interviews with the members, allowing viewers to gain insight into their motivations and innovative artistry.

Original performances and music videos are prominently showcased. These elements highlight the band’s unconventional style and visually striking aesthetics.

For more information, visit the IMDb page for Devo: We're All Devo! (1983).

3) Devo Live: The Men Who Make The Music (1981)

"Devo Live: The Men Who Make The Music" showcases the unique style and energy of the band during their 1978 tour. This documentary blends live concert footage with music videos and behind-the-scenes insights.

The film was initially completed in 1979 but faced delays in release due to concerns over its content, particularly its critique of the music industry. It finally saw release in 1981.

An interesting aspect of this documentary is its combination of performance with a loosely woven narrative about Devo's tension with the entertainment business. This creative approach helps to underline the band's anti-establishment ethos.

The concert segments feature energetic performances of their early hits, capturing the raw and innovative spirit that set Devo apart from other bands of the era. This mix of live and conceptual elements offers a comprehensive look at Devo during a formative period in their career.

For more information, you can visit the Wikipedia page.

4) DEVO Live 1980 (2005)

DEVO Live 1980 captures the band during their Freedom of Choice tour. Filmed on August 17, 1980, at the Phoenix Theatre in Petaluma, this recording showcases DEVO at a pivotal moment in their career. The performance comes from a period when DEVO was gaining mainstream success.

This release is a DualDisc, offering both a live album and a video of the performance. The video gives fans a unique chance to see DEVO's energetic stage presence and innovative music stylings in a live setting. This recording is a testament to the band's ability to captivate audiences.

One significant detail about DEVO Live 1980 is its rarity. Concerts from this era rarely survived, making this release a valuable piece of music history. It provides a look into DEVO's transition from art-focused performers to mainstream entertainers.

The video includes members Mark Mothersbaugh, Gerald Casale, Bob Casale, and Robert Mothersbaugh. Their performance emphasizes their reputation for combining music with visual art and satire. DEVO’s distinctive style and quirky performance techniques are on full display in this live recording.

For those looking to explore more about DEVO Live 1980, additional details can be found on IMDb.

5) Devo: Hardcore Devo Live! (2015)

"Devo: Hardcore Devo Live!" is a captivating concert film directed by Keirda Bahruth. Released in 2015, it captures Devo's performance at the Fox Theatre in Oakland, California.

The concert pays tribute to the band’s early days before achieving mainstream success. It showcases songs written between 1974 and 1977, offering fans a rare glimpse into Devo’s formative years.

This live album also honors Robert "Bob 2" Casale, a founding member who passed away in 2014. It forms a significant part of the band’s history, shedding light on their experimental roots.

The film is a tribute to Devo's resilience and creativity. It highlights their unique style and the raw energy that set them apart in the music world.

For more information, visit IMDb.

6) Devolution: A Devo Theory (2021)

"Devolution: A Devo Theory" delves into the minds of Devo, a band often misunderstood despite their trailblazing messages. Known for hits such as "Whip It" and "Freedom of Choice," Devo combined their music with a strong environmental and philosophical message.

The documentary features interviews with key members of Devo, including Gerald Casale, Mark Mothersbaugh, and Bob Mothersbaugh. It provides a deep exploration of the band's creative processes and the philosophical underpinnings of their work.

Directed by Adrian Faure and Dom Girogi, "Devolution: A Devo Theory" showcases archival footage and insights from the band that shaped the post-punk and new wave movements. The film investigates how Devo's apocalyptic vision influenced their music and artistry.

Through engaging storytelling and rare interviews, viewers get a comprehensive look at Devo's journey and their lasting impact on the music industry. The documentary is accessible to both long-time fans and those new to the band.

To find out more about this documentary, check out IMDb.

7) Devo: The Men Who Make The Music (1981)

"Devo: The Men Who Make The Music" is a pioneering home video by the American new wave band Devo. Originally finished in 1979, it faced delays due to its controversial content criticizing the music industry.

The film uniquely blends concert footage from Devo's 1978 tour with music videos. Interstitial segments tell a story about the band's challenging relationship with the music industry.

Directed by Gerald Casale and Chuck Statler, it features notable band members like Mark Mothersbaugh and Bob Casale. At its release, the film was seen as cutting-edge for its innovative approach and continues to be appreciated for its eccentric and entertaining style.

For more information, visit the IMDb page.

8) Devo - Live in the Land of the Rising Sun (2007)

"Devo - Live in the Land of the Rising Sun" offers an electrifying experience for fans of the iconic band Devo. This documentary captures a high-energy performance in Tokyo, Japan, where the band faced an exuberant crowd despite challenging conditions.

Recorded in a venue with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, the concert showcases Devo’s distinct style and innovative sounds. The band members, including Mark Mothersbaugh and Gerald Casale, deliver a powerful performance that highlights their enduring musical prowess.

The audience, clad in bootlegged energy domes and Devo T-shirts, enthusiastically sings along to the band's hits. The vibrant atmosphere and the band's dynamic stage presence make this a must-watch for anyone interested in witnessing Devo's live performances.

For more information, visit the IMDb page for Devo: Live in the Land of the Rising Sun.

9) Devo: But (2024)

Chris Smith's documentary, Devo (2024), captures the spirit and innovation of the band Devo. Known for their new wave style and memorable hit “Whip It,” Devo used their music to make a statement about societal “de-evolution.”

This authorized documentary features interviews with band members Mark Mothersbaugh, Bob Casale, and Gerald Casale. These discussions shed light on the band's formation and their reactions to significant events like the 1970 Kent State shootings.

The film includes a rich array of archival footage from Devo's prime years. Viewers are treated to TV interview excerpts where the band’s members humorously identify themselves as aliens, adding an unconventional twist to their narrative.

Smith’s work is praised for its vibrant editing and engaging presentation. The documentary offers fans and newcomers a thorough exploration of the band's history and influence in the new wave music scene.

More about Devo: But (2024) on IMDb

10) Devo: 'The Men Who Make the Music' (1981)

The film "The Men Who Make the Music" was an innovative release by Devo. It provides a unique blend of concert footage from their 1978 tour along with music videos.

The footage captures the essence of Devo's early years. It includes a storyline about the band's challenging relationship with the music industry, referred to in the film as "Big Entertainment".

Originally completed in 1979, it faced delays and wasn't released until 1981. The film was initially shelved due to concerns about its critical take on the music industry.

This documentary is noteworthy for combining performance and narrative elements, making it a must-see for fans of the band and the genre.

To learn more about "The Men Who Make the Music," visit IMDb.

The Cultural Impact of Devo

Devo reshaped the music landscape with their unique sound and visual identity. They not only pioneered new wave music but also had a lasting influence on modern artists.

Pioneers of New Wave Music

Devo emerged in the 1970s with a sound that was both innovative and subversive. Their music blended punk rock with electronic elements, creating a distinctive new wave style.

Mark Mothersbaugh and Gerald Casale, key members, crafted songs with satirical and political themes. Tracks like "Whip It" and "Jocko Homo" became anthems of this genre.

Their visual aesthetics, including futuristic outfits and conceptual music videos, were ahead of their time. This approach set a new standard in the music industry and influenced how bands used multimedia in their presentations.

Influence on Modern Artists

Devo’s legacy extends beyond their own era, seen clearly in the works of many contemporary artists. Bands like Nine Inch Nails and Gorillaz cite Devo as a major influence.

Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails has often acknowledged Devo’s impact on his music production and stage presence. Additionally, modern electronic musicians embrace Devo’s pioneering use of synthesizers and electronic beats.

The band’s focus on de-evolution resonated with artists interested in exploring thematic depths. Devo's ability to blend satire with substantive content carved a niche that modern musicians continue to explore.

Key Themes in Devo Documentaries

Devo documentaries often explore two primary themes: the band’s concept of De-Evolution and their innovative use of technology. These elements are crucial for understanding the band's unique artistic vision and influence.

De-Evolution Concept

Devo’s central philosophy is De-Evolution—the idea that instead of evolving, humanity is regressing. This theme is evident in their music, lyrics, and visual imagery. Documentaries frequently highlight how this concept shapes their work.

For example, Chris Smith’s film delves into the origins of Devo, explaining how their background influenced the De-Evolution theory. The documentaries often discuss the symbolic use of their distinctive costumes, such as the iconic yellow jumpsuits and energy domes, as representations of conformity and dehumanization.

These films also draw attention to the socio-political context of the 1970s and 1980s, illustrating how Devo’s message resonated during times of societal upheaval. The band’s performances and video content are dissected to show how they mock societal norms and critique the decline of intellectual and cultural progress.

Technological Innovation

Devo is renowned for their pioneering use of technology in music production and visual presentations. Documentaries focus on their early adoption of synthesizers and drum machines, which set them apart from other bands of their time.

Their groundbreaking music videos, laden with special effects and computer graphics, receive significant coverage. These videos are analyzed for their artistic and technical aspects, showing how Devo pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the medium.

Chris Smith’s documentary also emphasizes the band’s collaborative work with visual artists and filmmakers to create a distinctive aesthetic that blends absurdity with high-tech flair. This technological ingenuity not only defined their sound but also influenced the future direction of both music and video production.