Freedom of Choice cover

Freedom of Choice

Devo · 1980

32 min · 12 tracks · new wave · art rock

Futuristic synths and jagged rhythms collide with quirky, satirical lyrics reflecting a disjointed world.

Why this album works

Best for
concise, punchy listening sessions steady, consistent energy levels quirky, satirical reflections
Context
Released in 1980, 'Freedom of Choice' was Devo's third studio album, following their critically acclaimed debut 'Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!'. At this point, the band was solidifying their unique identity within the new wave movement while exploring themes of consumerism and conformity. The album marked a significant evolution in their sound, incorporating more polished production techniques.
If you like
new wave, art rock

Freedom of Choice is an album by Devo, released in 1980. Futuristic synths and jagged rhythms collide with quirky, satirical lyrics reflecting a disjointed world. 'Freedom of Choice' is notable for its breakthrough hit 'Whip It', which reached No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing Devo's place in pop culture. The album's blend of art rock and new wave influenced countless artists and helped shape the sound of the early 1980s music scene. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Freedom of Choice sound like?

Futuristic synths and jagged rhythms collide with quirky, satirical lyrics reflecting a disjointed world. Rooted in new wave and art rock.

What makes Freedom of Choice by Devo notable?

'Freedom of Choice' is notable for its breakthrough hit 'Whip It', which reached No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing Devo's place in pop culture. The album's blend of art rock and new wave influenced countless artists and helped shape the sound of the early 1980s music scene. Released in 1980, 'Freedom of Choice' was Devo's third studio album, following their critically acclaimed debut 'Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!'. At this point, the band was solidifying their unique identity within the new wave movement while exploring themes of consumerism and conformity. The album marked a significant evolution in their sound, incorporating more polished production techniques.

Who is Freedom of Choice for?

Freedom of Choice works well if you're into concise, punchy listening sessions, steady, consistent energy levels and quirky, satirical reflections.

How many songs are on Freedom of Choice?

Freedom of Choice has 12 tracks, running approximately 32 minutes.

Tracklist

12 tracks·32:30

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Girl U Want Standout 2:57
  • 2 It’s Not Right 2:22
  • 3 Whip It Standout 2:38
  • 4 Snowball 2:29
  • 5 Ton o’ Luv 2:30
  • 6 Freedom of Choice Standout 3:28
  • 7 Gates of Steel 3:27
  • 8 Cold War 2:31
  • 9 Don’t You Know 2:15
  • 10 That’s Pep! 2:17
  • 11 Mr. B’s Ballroom 2:47
  • 12 Planet Earth 2:45

Release Date

January 1, 1980

Genre

art rock, new wave

More albums in art rock

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

32 min 30 sec