It was a humid Monday night in Toronto, but inside History, the air buzzed with anticipation. The venue, a former church turned concert hall, was packed with fans of all ages, from longtime devotees to newcomers eager to experience the band’s unique blend of new wave, punk, and performance art. As the lights dimmed and the opening video—a satirical piece featuring Rod Rooter—played on the screens, the crowd erupted into cheers. The 50 Years of De-Evolution…Continued! Tour had arrived in Toronto, and the city was ready for a night of eccentricity, energy, and, of course, de-evolution.
Full Setlist
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Rod Rooter Now Video
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Don’t Shoot (I’m a Man)
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Peek-A-Boo!
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Going Under
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That’s Good
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Girl U Want
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Whip It
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Planet Earth
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Carl Sagan Video
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(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction (The Rolling Stones cover)
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Secret Agent Man (P.F. Sloan cover)
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Uncontrollable Urge
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Mongoloid
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Jocko Homo
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Smart Patrol/Mr. DNA
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Gates of Steel
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DEVO Corporate Anthem Video
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Freedom of Choice
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Gut Feeling (Slap Your Mammy)
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Beautiful World (Booji Boy on vocals)
The Energy
From the moment the band took the stage, it was clear that DEVO hadn’t lost a step. Despite being in their 70s, the members—Gerald Casale, Mark Mothersbaugh, Josh Hager, and Josh Freese—delivered a performance full of vigor and precision. The set was a whirlwind of frenetic energy, with each song flowing seamlessly into the next, punctuated by costume changes, video interludes, and the band’s signature brand of satirical commentary.
The crowd responded enthusiastically, singing along to every word and dancing to the infectious rhythms. The band’s chemistry was palpable, with each member playing off the others, creating a dynamic and engaging performance. The visuals, including the Rod Rooter and Carl Sagan videos, added an extra layer of depth, reinforcing the band’s themes of de-evolution and societal critique.
Highlights & Crowd Moments
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“Whip It”: As the opening notes of this iconic track began, the crowd erupted into cheers. The song’s infectious energy had everyone on their feet, singing along and dancing. The band’s performance was tight, with Mark’s distinctive vocals leading the charge.
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“Beautiful World”: Performed with Booji Boy—Mark’s alter ego—on vocals, this track took on a surreal quality. The juxtaposition of the upbeat melody and the satirical lyrics had the audience laughing and reflecting simultaneously.
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“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”: DEVO’s cover of this Rolling Stones classic was a standout moment. The band infused it with their unique style, turning the familiar tune into a commentary on consumerism and societal norms.
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“Mongoloid” and “Jocko Homo”: These early DEVO tracks showcased the band’s punk roots. The raw energy and driving rhythms had the crowd moshing and singing along, proving that DEVO’s music still resonates with fans decades later.
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“Smart Patrol/Mr. DNA”: This medley was a highlight of the set, with its intricate rhythms and layered vocals. The crowd was captivated, hanging on every note as the band navigated through the complex arrangement.
The Vibe
The atmosphere inside History was electric. The venue’s intimate setting allowed for a close connection between the band and the audience. Fans were dressed in a mix of DEVO-themed attire, from yellow jumpsuits to energy domes, creating a sea of de-evolved fashion. The crowd was diverse, with fans spanning generations, all united by their love for DEVO’s music and message.
The sound quality was excellent, with each instrument and vocal coming through clearly. The lighting and visuals complemented the music, enhancing the overall experience without overshadowing the performance. The band’s use of video interludes added an extra layer of depth, reinforcing their themes and providing moments of humor and reflection.
Tiny Quibbles
While the evening was largely flawless, there were a few minor technical issues. At times, the vocals were slightly overpowered by the instruments, making it difficult to catch every lyric. Additionally, the transitions between some songs felt a bit abrupt, though this did little to detract from the overall flow of the set.
The absence of an opening act was noticeable. While DEVO’s performance was more than enough to satisfy, the lack of a warm-up band left the audience with a bit more time to wait before the main event. However, this was a minor issue in an otherwise stellar evening.
Final Thoughts
DEVO’s performance at History was a testament to their enduring relevance and creativity. The band’s ability to blend music, satire, and performance art into a cohesive and engaging show is unmatched. The 50 Years of De-Evolution…Continued! Tour is not just a celebration of the band’s past but a statement on the present and future. As they continue to challenge societal norms and push artistic boundaries, DEVO proves that they are as vital and innovative as ever.
For those who have followed DEVO’s journey over the decades, the Toronto show was a reminder of why they remain a beloved and influential force in music. For newcomers, it was an introduction to a band that defies categorization and continues to inspire with their unique vision and sound.
As the final notes of “Beautiful World” echoed through the venue, the crowd erupted into applause, showing their appreciation for a night that was as thought-provoking as it was entertaining. DEVO had once again proven that they are not just a band but a cultural institution, challenging the status quo and encouraging us all to embrace the de-evolution.