Fri 8/15-Sat 8/16
For a decade in the ’00s, Devo fans from around the country gathered in northeast Ohio each year to pay tribute Akron’s Devo at the annual DEVOtional. And the band, which formed in the early ’70s and started to attract first cult and then mass attention by the late ’70s, attracts very devoted fans, who call themselves Spuds. Its angular music and humorous lyrics with their sly social and political commentary appeal especially to intelligent nerdy types who form the base of their following.
The earlier events were in Akron before the whole shebang moved north to Cleveland’s Beachland Ballroom. The last DEVOtional took place there in 2010.
This year’s DEVOtional is again at the Beachland Ballroom from 8/15-Sat 8/16. As usual, it will be packed with Devo tribute bands (which usually offer their own odd takes on Devo music rather than slavish imitations) as well as bands inspired by Devo. Videos, speakers and displays of artwork and merchandise are also part of the event.
Band member Gerald V. Casale, who was the special guest in 2010, will again be the star attraction. (The previous year, his brother Bob, who died in February, was the guest and not only spoke and did a Q&A but also cooked a very tasty dinner for the crowd. Expect some tearful tributes to Bob during the event.)
A two-day ticket is $35; for 18 and under it’s only $15 for you Devo Obsessos who want to turn your kids on to this unique band.
Go here for more info and to buy tickets.
devo-obsesso.com/devotional2014
Photo of Bob Casale at DEVOtional 2009 by Anastasia Pantsios
One Response to “Spuds, Rejoice! The DEVOtional Is Back @BeachlandCle”
Donavan Suitt
DEVOtional 2015 will be AMAZING. So many spud-surprises you won’t believe it!