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The Wipeouters
Biography
According to a press release from 2001 (which could very well be a goofy fabrication), the seeds of '70s/'80s new wave groundbreakers Devo lay in a '60s surf band, known as the Wipeouters. Future Devo members Mark Mothersbaugh, Bob Mothersbaugh, and Robert Casale formed the band for fun in Akron, OH, back in 1966, inspired by the likes of the Beach Boys, Jan & Dean, Dick Dale, the Trashmen, and the Ventures. The group never broke out nationally (that was never the intention), as the bandmembers went their separate ways by the '70s, as Mark went to Kent State University with Robert Casale's brother, Gerry.

Witnessing the notorious "Kent State Killings" by that National Guard in 1970, the duo hatched the idea of how mankind had "de-volved" in the late 20th century, and began putting their theories and ideas of "de-evolution" to music and film (all the while adding a heavy dose of humor to the proceedings) -- this lead to the birth of Devo. With Mark Mothersbaugh handling synths/vocals and Gerry Casale the bass/vocals, the duo invited their brothers to join the fledgling group (both playing guitar), with drummer Alan Myers eventually rounding out the group and leading to a recording contract with Warners by 1977.
Selected Discography