Devo’s Continued Legacy: Touring and New Music Ventures

Devo has reached a significant milestone, marking 16 years since the release of their last proper studio album, Something for Everybody, in 2010. While these new wave pioneers remain highly active through various projects, it appears that new music is not currently on their agenda.

Ongoing Tour with the B-52’s

Instead of focusing on new recordings, Devo has been busy touring, including a series of performances alongside fellow new wave icons, the B-52’s. Recently, they announced additional dates for their “Cosmic De-Evolution” tour, which kicks off on September 17 in Tinley Park, a suburb of Chicago. Additionally, in August, they are set to share the stage with Billy Idol, further showcasing their enduring appeal across generations.

This continuous touring has not only solidified Devo’s status among long-time fans but has also attracted a new wave of younger listeners. Co-founder Gerald Casale humorously remarked that Devo has become the “new wave Grateful Dead,” benefiting from an unexpected resurgence in popularity among younger audiences.

The Question of New Music

When it comes to the absence of new music, Casale is candid about the situation. In a recent interview with journalist Lyndsey Parker, he expressed his frustration, stating, “You’re preaching to the converted here. Tell Mr. [Mark] Mothersbaugh.” He added, “If you find out, let me know,” when asked if Mothersbaugh was preoccupied with other projects. This lack of clarity leaves fans yearning for new material from the band.

Gerald Casale’s Solo Project: Wetiko

Despite the silence from Devo regarding new music, Casale has been channeling his creativity into a solo album titled Wetiko. Set for release in October, this project explores a 300-year-old Native American belief about the psychological sickness of Western culture. Casale describes it as a reflection on insatiable greed and selfishness that he believes plagues modern society.

The album features contributions from fellow Devo members Josh Hager and Jeff Friedl, as well as notable guests such as Steve Bartek from Oingo Boingo and Billy Idol collaborator Steve Stevens, who lends his guitar skills to several tracks.

First Single: “Just Do It!”

The lead single from Wetiko is titled “Just Do It!” which Casale describes as an outlier among the album’s tracks. He notes that while it addresses the duality of human nature, it stands apart in its thematic approach. Originating back in 2016, the song is a “finger-snapping ditty for fascist America,” reflecting Casale’s concerns about the political climate. He expresses his dismay at the direction society has taken, particularly with the return of Donald Trump, stating, “It’s a horror show.”

Upcoming Tour Dates

Devo’s forthcoming tour will commence on August 7 in Scranton, Pennsylvania, alongside Billy Idol. They will then join forces with the B-52’s in September, culminating their tour with a performance on Halloween in Palm Desert, California, in 2026.

Conclusion

As Devo continues to tour and engage with both old and new fans, their legacy as new wave pioneers remains strong. While the wait for new music from the band continues, Gerald Casale’s upcoming solo project offers a glimpse into the creative endeavors of one of the band’s founding members. Fans can look forward to both live performances and fresh material from the ever-evolving world of Devo.

FAQs

Why hasn’t Devo released new music in recent years?

Devo has been focusing on touring and has not prioritized new music projects. Co-founder Gerald Casale has indicated a lack of clarity regarding the band’s future musical direction.

What is Gerald Casale’s solo album about?

Casale’s solo album, Wetiko, explores a Native American belief about the psychological sickness of Western culture, focusing on themes of greed and selfishness.

When are Devo’s upcoming tour dates?

Devo’s next tour dates will begin on August 7 in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and they will perform with the B-52’s starting September 17 in Tinley Park, concluding with a concert on Halloween in Palm Desert, California.