Score: 56%

You would think that in 20 years of their absence a lot in the music world would have changed, but ironically Devo have hit the spotlight again in front of an audience who have progressed very little. The band who arrived in the 1970s to save us from cultural and social devolution have chosen a brilliant time to come back, easily slotting right in and picking up where they left off.

Something for Everybody echoes the eighties sound the five piece is famous for. Strong, danceable rhythms lay the foundations on which bold synthesised melodies and unexpected samples resonate to create that familiar, and welcome, Devo sound. On the other hand, it’s no reincarnation of Freedom of Choice or Shout; the album does hint at an evolution. Tracks flow more smoothly, indicating a greater appreciation of pop-sensibility. The memorable riffs and hooks stay with you hours after hearing them, simple yet hypnotising lyrics and phrasing playing to Devo’s advantage more than ever.

Critics of the record have challenged the higher production qualities of the recording, the band’s shift towards a more electronic sound and, at worst, have questioned whether it’s just another cashing in on the recent revival movement. Regardless of intentions, the core element of the band is still very evident. Mark Mothersbaugh plays down such speculation, saying that Devo’s not really about a certain guitar sound or a certain voice, but what’s really important is the message; devolution is very real. It is extremely hard in this day and age to find any slice of originality in modern media. Ironic as it may be, this is true of Something for Everybody as well, what links the album with today’s audience also reduces the integrity of the music.

While it is a refreshing glimpse back into the past, it seems to be less like an album in its true sense, and almost more like a compilation. There is a consistent, upbeat sound that dominates the album, working well in small doses but ultimately weighing Devo down.