WORDS AND IMAGES: DANA WALSH IN AUSTIN, TX | It was a night of nostalgia, energy, and pure joy as Devo and The B-52s took the stage at Germania Amphitheater in Austin. From the stormy build-up to the electric atmosphere inside, the evening was a rollercoaster of emotions that culminated in unforgettable performances by two iconic bands that helped define an era. Whether you were there to shimmy to “Love Shack” or lose yourself in the chaotic brilliance of “Whip It,” this show was a celebration of bold, unapologetic music that still feels as fresh and fun as ever. Curious how the night unfolded? Let me take you through the highs, the surprises, and the moments that made it magical.
Let me set the scene. The drive to the venue was a stormy adventure—rain on and off for nearly an hour and a half. When I finally pulled in (a solid three hours early), the sky looked ominous, heavy clouds rolling with flashes of lightning in the distance. Dread started to creep in, but I tried to stay hopeful.
About an hour before showtime, the storm hit full force. Then it stopped. Then it threatened again. So, we all waited it out in our cars, refreshing social media for updates. I got a text saying the show was delayed and that they’d keep us posted. A little relief, but still that nervous “what if” feeling. Half an hour later, I noticed a few people walking toward the stairwell where we were supposed to enter. I got out and crossed the lot to check with security. I’d barely been standing there thirty seconds when someone came over the guard’s radio: “They’re letting people in.”
Instant excitement. From our spot, you couldn’t see the main entrance, so it felt deserted—like maybe the storm had scared everyone off. Nope. Once inside, the place was packed. The air was electric, the crowd buzzing with relief and anticipation. The speakers blasted tracks straight out of my high school years, and the nostalgia was real. The anticipation built, and I couldn’t help thinking how much The B-52s and Devo had really helped shape that era. They were bold, bizarre, and utterly unapologetic about being different. We could use more of that today.
The B-52s hit the stage, opening with “Cosmic Thing.” They sounded incredible—voices perfectly in sync, energy through the roof. It was impossible not to dance. By the time “Private Idaho” kicked in, our photo duties were done, and everyone let loose. When “Roam” started, the feeling in the air was pure freedom. I watched from above the crowd, wind blowing, people moving and shimmying and smiling and laughing—it was pure joy.
Their finale built up beautifully: “Love Shack,” “Planet Claire,” and the wild, wonderful “Rock Lobster.” And yes, a giant dancing lobster joined them on stage—because of course there was!
Back in high school, most of the guys we hung out with were total Devo fans. Us girls? We mostly just knew “Whip It” and “Girl U Want.” Which we loved, of course. So yeah, when those songs came on, it was purely A-W-E-S-O-M-E dance fun. The energy was insane!
We were off to the side for a few songs, waiting to jump into the pit, and it gave me the opportunity to really watch them on stage—and holy wow—they blew me away. I couldn’t stop moving. I’m not usually that person, but their energy is unstoppable. Their music is wild, intense, quirky, and totally addictive. You just have to dance.
And then they played “Uncontrollable Urge.” Instant flashback—one of our crazy friends from back in the day jumping around to it. I didn’t even realize I knew it, and suddenly I remembered! As soon as the guitar and drums really kick in, it was on! I wanted to start jumping around and going crazy—basically join the chaos. Apparently, I’m not as worried about looking cool anymore. The crowd was totally into it, dancing, laughing, having an absolute blast. It was a pure throwback but so alive right now.
Devo was way ahead of their time and seeing them live reminded me why. Their music is freaking timeless, full of energy, and just plain fun. I left grinning, laughing, buzzing, and wishing the night would never end. I would do it all over again if I could. Maybe next year?
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah-yeah-yeah-yeah-yeah-yeah-yeah-yeah!
THE B-52s
DEVO
