Iconic new wave group Devo was ready to whip Phoenix into shape with two nights in the Valley this week. Night one packed the house at Arizona Financial Theatre while night two provided a more intimate experience at The Van Buren just down the street. Fans of all ages donned their energy domes and yellow jumpsuits and danced both nights away for the Mutate, Don’t Stagnate Tour.
Sunday night brought the superfans to Arizona Financial Theatre, dressed in their finest Devo-inspired gear and gearing up for a lengthy performance from the group. Without an opener, the night began early as everyone got up on their feet for “Don’t Shoot (I’m a Man)” and “Peek-A-Boo!” to kick things off. The band fully embodied the boundless energy and sharp delivery that shot them to stardom over 50 years ago and plenty of day one fans could be seen reliving those glory days in the crowd.
Devo smoothly reappeared in their signature energy domes for “Whip It” and “Planet Earth”, all while tossing domes into the audience and framing their performance with a kaleidoscope of ever-changing graphics on the massive LED screen behind them. Standing in the midst of an enraptured roomful of fans, it was impossible to remain seated and Devo certainly gave the people a setlist worthy of movement from start to finish. From their plethora of costume changes- including those unmistakable yellow suits- to the perfectly curated setlist, fans emerged from the venue already buzzing with anticipation for Monday evening’s special show.
The Van Buren boasted a sold out crowd for the second of two nights with Devo and the fans brought out their best outfits and most positive energy to fill the room for another chance to dance on a weeknight. The setlist may have been the same as night one but that simply didn’t matter to the Devo devotees- they were even more prepared to give the band everything they had and the band returned the favor with a spirited set.
Fans were pressed shoulder to shoulder, moving to “Girl U Want” and “Uncontrollable Urge” as their production scaled down just enough to fit The Van Buren’s cozy stage. Once again, the show concluded with “Freedom of Choice”, “Gut Feeling (Slap Your Mammy)” and “Beautiful World” and with a set this stellar, the whole audience went home feeling fulfilled after spending two memorable nights with the incomparable Devo.
