Album of the Day

If current events haven't made you a believer in Devo's theory of de-evolution, give a listen to NEW TRADITIONALISTS. The group's reaction to the rise of the right-wing helped inspire the title, but whether the plastic pompadours that the spudboys model on the cover of the 1981 collection are inspired by Kennedy or Reagan, it's clear they hold out little hope for modern society on these 10 originals. Skewering everything from the political process (“Enough Said”) to their newfound fame (“Through Being Cool”) to glib positivity (“Beautiful World,” a minor hit), these songs are among Devo's darkest and most direct, even when peppered with synth-pop hooks. We'll wish band co-founder Mark Mothersbaugh a happy birthday with another spin of NEW TRADITIONALISTS.