99% Invisible

Devolutionary Redesign

6 snips
Oct 17, 2023
In a fascinating discussion, reporter Sean Cole and Devo co-founder Jerry Casale dive into the significance of album art before the digital age. They explore Devo’s unique philosophy of 'de-evolution' and the creative hurdles they faced, especially regarding the controversial image on their debut album's cover. With amusing anecdotes about legal quirks and the absurdities of the music industry, they celebrate the intersection of nostalgia, artistic integrity, and the cultural critiques embedded in their work.
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ANECDOTE

Devo Appreciation

  • Roman Mars appreciates Devo but wasn't a devotee.
  • He recalls their quirky "Satisfaction" cover on SNL.
ANECDOTE

Devo's Origins

  • Devo's name reflects their serious philosophy of human de-evolution.
  • They started as visual artists, exploring de-evolutionary art in Akron, Ohio.
ANECDOTE

Chi-Chi Discovery

  • Devo found a Chi-Chi Rodriguez illustration on golf balls at a department store.
  • Mark Mothersbaugh, drawn to the kitsch and Chi-Chi's flamboyant style, used the image.
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