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On the DVD commentary of Erle C. Kenton’s Island of Lost Souls, Devo frontman Mark Mothersbaugh explains that the band’s theory of de-evolution largely stems from late-night viewings of the seminal sci-fi film. How appropriate, then, that Devo’s oddball philosophy and idiosyncratic style spawned its own cultish midnight-movie appeal, one that’s resonated far beyond the novelty of “Whip It.” After an extended hiatus in the ’90s, the band regrouped last year for Something For Everybody, a comeback attempt that failed to generate much excitement. No matter. In its 2009 shows at 9:30 Club, Devo focused on its two most beloved albums, Freedom of Choice and Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo, and there’s a good chance Mothersbaugh et al. will revisit those hits tonight. Diehards—or Spuds, as they are known—with deep pockets and an appreciation of awkward small talk should spring for the $120 tickets, which include a meet-and-greet with the band. Are they not worth it? 8 p.m. at State Theatre. $57-$120. (Matt Siblo)
CARTOONS
Al Jaffee, MAD magazine’s reigning master of the Snappy Answer to Stupid Questions, speaks at the D.C. Jewish Community Center. The 89-year-old cartoonist is still doing the Fold-Ins at the back of MAD, where he has appeared for every issue but one since 1964, which is before most of the City Paper staff was born. Jaffee will be discussing his autobiography, Al Jaffee’s Mad Life, co-authored with Mary-Lou Weisman. 7:30 at the DCJCC. $10. (Mike Rhode)
PUNKMAS
Windian Records is throwing a Christmas party at Pharmacy Bar in Adams Morgan tonight. Label owner Travis Jackson promises a raffle (to benefit Positive Force), lots of Windian releases for sale, rock ‘n’ roll DJ sets, and excessive drinking. 9 p.m. No cover.
MUSIC FROM LAS AMERICAS
Head over to Café Saint-Ex—-the subject of Chris Shott’s big print feature this week—-to hear some Brazilian jams courtesy of Som Records’ Neal Becton and (disclosure: my friend) Justin Jouvenal. Specials on Peroni and Caipirinhas all night. 9:30 p.m. No cover.
City Paper contributor Steve Kiviat recommends tonight’s Maracuyeah party, “Fin de Año ~ Amor Tropical,” an end-of-year affair with New York’s global tech/alt-Latino DJ Geko Jones and local spinners. Says Kiviat: “Expect cutting-edge and classic tunes from Latin America and other locales, courtesy of Jones and the Maracuyeah crew (featuring Bent, Mafe, rAt, K La Rock, and Brian Senyo). All will spin Cumbiasalvaje, tribal guarachero, salsatronic, ochenteros, merengue ripiao, dancehall, y mucho mas.” 9 p.m. at Restaurant Judy. $3.