New wave innovators and silly hat proponents Devo are coming together to play their first show in their hometown of Akron, Ohio in 30 years, and it’s a fundraiser for the Democratic Party.
Over the years, the band has performed several times in Cleveland and at Blossom Music Center, but, by Devo member Mark Mothersbaugh’s recollection, the band’s show on Friday at the Civic Theatre will bring the band full circle as the theater was the setting of their final Akron concert in 1978. The show, called Duty Now for the Future — the title of Devo’s sophomore album — will be a benefit for the Summit County Democratic Party. … “Ohio is in our blood,” said Mothersbaugh, “you can take the boys out of Ohio but you can’t take Ohio out of the boys.”
The band, which also includes Mothersbaugh’s brother, Bob; brothers Gerald and Bob Casale and Josh Freese, is not touring, but Mothersbaugh said the election was too important to stand by and do nothing to inspire folks to get to the polls.
“I think our fans are like us in that they are pro-information and anti-stupidity,” he said laughing heartily.
Devo members, in addition to being anti-stupidity and wearing those funny hats, have also been active proponents of the Church of the SubGenius, which in this day and age is probably considered a terrorist group, so it’s probably best if Obama himself doesn’t show up. But apparently the Black Keys and Chrissie Hynde might. Go, Ohio! Are there any direct flights to Akron from here?
