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Duty Now for the Future

by Devo

Released: June 01, 1979

New wave, post-punk

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Cult Following.

The Album

"Duty Now for the Future" is the second studio album by the American new wave band Devo. "Duty Now for the Future" produced several singles, including "The Day My Baby Gave Me a Surprise" and "Secret Agent Man". Released in 1979, the album continues Devo's exploration of social, political, and philosophical themes.

Inside the Recording

Produced by Ken Scott, the album's title comes from the band's concept of 'Devo,' a theoretical de-evolution of the human race.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

Characteristic of Devo's musical style, "Duty Now for…

Characteristic of Devo's musical style, "Duty Now for the Future" incorporates electronic synthesizers and a unique mix of punk, art rock, and post-punk sound.

With songs like "Secret Agent Man," a cover…

With songs like "Secret Agent Man," a cover of Johnny Rivers' hit with Devo's distinct style, and "Smart Patrol/Mr. DNA", a fan favorite, the album reinforced Devo's reputation as a pioneering band of the new wave genre.

The album cover, featuring an image of a…

The album cover, featuring an image of a Neanderthal-like figure in Devo's signature energy dome hat, underscores this vision.

Additionally, the album is considered instrumental in shaping…

Additionally, the album is considered instrumental in shaping Devo's music and establishing a clear musical direction for the band.

Watch and listen

Explore the Album

Devo - Duty Now for the Future

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Then

Reception

Although the album was not as commercially successful as the band's later work, it was hailed by critics for its innovative blend of electronic and punk rock sounds.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"Duty Now for the Future" is the second studio album by the American new wave band Devo. Released in 1979, the album continues Devo's exploration of social, political, and philosophical themes. Characteristic of Devo's musical style, "Duty Now for the Future" incorporates electronic synthesizers and a unique mix of punk, art rock, and post-punk sound.

Produced by Ken Scott, the album's title comes from the band's concept of 'Devo,' a theoretical de-evolution of the human race. The album cover, featuring an image of a Neanderthal-like figure in Devo's signature energy dome hat, underscores this vision.

"Duty Now for the Future" produced several singles, including "The Day My Baby Gave Me a Surprise" and "Secret Agent Man". Although the album was not as commercially successful as the band's later work, it was hailed by critics for its innovative blend of electronic and punk rock sounds. Additionally, the album is considered instrumental in shaping Devo's music and establishing a clear musical direction for the band.