::Tell Us, Devo: ARCHIVES::

mailed 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.

mailed 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

mailed 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.

mailed 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

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 explaining the situation, from his point of view.

It went like this: he said that 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 US?
Q3: I suppose that De-evolution is for real?

-- Gary

A2: 1983
A3: 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.