Recombo DNA

The story of Devo, or how the 60s became the 80s

Kevin C. Smith

Recombo DNA: The Story of Devo, or How the 60s Became the 80s is not just a recounting of a band; it's a dive headfirst into the radical mutations of culture, sound, and society throughout the 20th century. Kevin C. Smith's compelling narrative pulls back the curtain on Devo, a band that transformed the mundane into the extraordinary, challenging the very fabric of what music and art could represent in a changing world.

Smith's expertly crafted work offers a kaleidoscopic view of how the psychedelic visions of the '60s morphed into the stark, robotic aesthetics of the '80s. This transformation wasn't merely a change of tune; it was a cultural upheaval. Devo emerged like a phoenix from the ashes of the counterculture, introducing us to a dystopian soundscape rife with irony that forced us to confront our rapidly evolving world. The band, often dismissed as mere novelty, actually challenged the conventional through their innovative sound-a sharp slap to the face of mainstream mediocrity.

But what is it about Devo that still reverberates in the hearts of audiences today? Is it the iconic yellow hazmat suits? The unforgettable energy of "Whip It"? Or is it the profound commentary on de-evolution-a concept that suggests that civilization is regressing rather than progressing? With Recombo DNA, Smith crucially embeds Devo's music within the socio-political landscape of America, making every note they played a critique of our times.

Readers have described the book as both enlightening and provocative, leading them to not just appreciate Devo's uniqueness, but also to re-evaluate their place in our cultural history. Some critics argue that Smith could delve even deeper into the emotional weight of the band's music, while others praise him for weaving together the complexities of Devo's vision and creativity with solid anecdotes and historical references.

Fans of Devo will not only find a biography of the band, but a compelling case for why their influence cannot be understated. The stylistic and experimental approaches they employed inspired legions of artists and bands, from Nirvana to Radiohead. Devo redefined what it meant to be avant-garde, merging art, fashion, and music in ways that are still relevant today. The impact is palpable-countless artists reflect on Devo's contributions with reverence and recognition.

As you turn each page of Recombo DNA, you're swept into a time capsule filled with striking visual imagery, compelling narratives, and unexpected revelations. You'll learn how the band's quirky performances and outrageous fashion choices were a deliberate rebellion against a society that had become increasingly homogenized. In dissecting Devo's work, Smith doesn't just narrate history; he evokes the emotional resonance of a generation struggling to find its voice amidst chaos.

Be prepared for a whirlwind of emotions as you grapple with the harsh realities of de-evolution. This idea-that we are continuously spiraling back, losing the essence of what it means to be human-can induce feelings of dread, yet also a fierce desire to resist conformity in any form. The intensity of this struggle is embodied in Devo's music, a testament to their genius.

In a world where conformity often reigns supreme, Recombo DNA is a rallying cry for those who dare to challenge the status quo. Smith's book showcases how Devo's influence transcended music, turning into a cultural phenomenon that still inspires subversion today. Whether you find a horrific mirror of our times or a joyous dance of rebellion in Devo's legacy, one thing is clear: this is a journey worth taking.

Take a journey with Recombo DNA that will ignite your imagination and challenge your perceptions. Discover how a band that once seemed like a mere footnote in the annals of rock history became a powerful symbol of resistance, urging you to redefine your own narrative in this ongoing saga of culture and creativity.

📖 Recombo DNA: The story of Devo, or how the 60s became the 80s

✍ by Kevin C. Smith

🧾 318 pages

2013

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