New Traditionalists

by Devo

Description by OLDIES.com:

A CD reissue of Devo's 1981 album, "New Traditionalists."

Product Description:

NEW TRADITIONALISTS contains 3 bonus tracks.

Devo: Mark Mothersbaugh (vocals); Bob Mothersbaugh, Bob Casale (guitar); Gerald V. Casale (bass); Alan Myers (percussion).

With the commercial success of their previous album FREEDOM OF CHOICE, the pressure was on Devo to come up with another hit. While NEW TRADITIONALISTS was indeed an exceptional album, it did not replicate the commercial success of its predecessor. The album was the first to be completely produced by the band, and also marks the first time that keyboards and electronic drums would dominate the arrangements on a Devo record (little guitar is heard), resulting in a much more computerized and precise sound. But the songwriting skills of Mark Mothersbaugh and Gerald Casale were in full effect, as Devo's trademark humor and wit were on full display.

The opener, "Through Being Cool," catches the band at it's most fun. Other technoid highlights abound, such as the forgotten early-'80s MTV hit "Love Without Anger," the ironic "Beautiful World," the jittery "Going Under" and an anthemic Devo concert staple, "Jerkin' Back N' Forth." Also included are lesser-known (yet still intriguing) tracks, such as "Pity You" and "Soft Things." Another powerful Devo release.