The idea of Devolution was developed as a joke by Kent State University art students Gerald Casale and Bob Lewis as early as the late 1960s. Casale and Lewis created a number of art pieces in the vein of Devolution. At this time, Casale had also performed with the local band 15-60-75. They met Mark Mothersbaugh around 1970, who introduced them to the pamphlet Jocko Homo Heavenbound, which would later inspire the song "Jocko Homo".
The pivotal moment for the formation of Devo was the Kent State shootings of May 4, 1970. Casale knew two of the murdered students, and even saw one student, Alison Krause, with exit wounds from the M-16 rifle. At this moment, Casale changed the idea of Devolution into a serious concept.
From Wikipedia
I read an interview with Casale and Mothersbaugh that made it clear that Kent State really was the pivotal event. After almost 40 years these guys are still angry and reading about their experiences I can see why. Their best song, in my opinion, is Gates of Steel, the closest thing to optimism these guys ever came in a song. If I find a good linkable version I will add it.
posted by guerilla dove @ 9:02 PM
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