Ithaca

Hey friends,

I hope this last month has been good to you. It's been pretty chill here in the Cute Scenarios camp. due to schedule conflicts, work was near impossible this month. For my partner in crime, three quarters of this month are being spent in upstate New York. So the rest of the CS crew are Sad Pandas.

If any of you guys out there are feeling charitable, or like The Smashing Pumpkins/mid 90's-early 2000's alt rock at all, you should come out to number's on August 21st. For the past four years, I've been in a yearly cover band that specializes in The Smashing Pumpkins (and Siamese Dream/ Mellon collie era at that) songs. We put on this show for a scholarship It's a great cause and a fun night so you should come out. The night will be extra special since it's the last time we're doing it.

That's all the news I've got right now. We'll be in touch real soon though.

Hello? Is it me you're looking for?

Hey there everypeoples. we've been falling behind on our blogging duties. Unforgivable, I know. We just had a second show at The Mink downtown. If you came out, thank you!

j and I used that show to test out some new things. The new song "Stalky-Shooty" seemed to go over as well as it could. There was a nice little bit of play acting going on and that. More new things are to come with your stage show...PERCUSSION! It's going to be crazy and cool.

Other than that, "Operation Goldielocks" has been pretty quiet. We haven't done anymore recording since the last time I talked to you about it. I have been promised that we will tackle that in earnest soon but schedules have to sync for that to happen and blah, blah, blah, boring.

This Friday we are opening up for this show. It's got free admission and cheap drinks and a chance to hear some new Cute Scenarios songs.

Alright team, show some fire out there. Coach wants us to get our heads in the game.

My three cents

In spite of appearances, capital J and I (lowercase j) have actually been working. We have written one complete song in recent weeks, and Jono has some tunes ready for my deeply profound words to breathe life into. We are also (as you may be aware), trying to raise money to cover production/recording costs. Just buy the friggin Mannequin EP already, and get a hat while you're at it! This summer is a big deal for the golden-haired cuties, and it's all about the work. Fortuitously, my brother in law Greg (of Crank Case) is a sound guy and has agreed to do some recording and sound work for us---starting NEXT WEEK. So asses are in gear, noses poised at grindstones, and all that other rot. We will try to put together a performance or two, over the coming months, but buckle up for something new. It may hurt a little, but in the end I suspect you will like it.

Bises,
--joie

li'l update

Last Week joie and I had the intense pleasure of going to see Arcade Fire play. That band is SO great live. If you don't have them yet, get all three of their albums. Arcade Fire are an amazing, amazing band.

Now to real Cute Scenarios news: We're still raising money to record. My bandmate has decided to make and sell ladies hats. Yay, Cute Scenarios fashion! These hats are deliciously vintage and look stunning. When there's a storefront, we'll link you to it, but for more info you can either Email us at: cute.scenarios@yahoo.com, or contact either of us on Facebook.

The song front is looking really good. Musically I've written two more songs this week. so once all is said and done and all the lyrics are sorted out, we'll have 8 songs ready for a new album.

Things are looking good. hopefully we'll be able to play live soon and really be able to sink our teeth into these new songs.

Alright guys, there's an Apple Juice and Vodka with my name on it. Catch you on the flippity-flopp.

My thoughts on "The Mannequin EP"

I hope everyone has gotten a chance to read the formal announcement about the release of The Mannequin, If you haven't yet, It's worth a skim. In a nutshell it says we have made the EP available through Bandcamp, blah blah blah, fundraser, blah blah blah, recording equipment. Anyway, I'm here to give you some thoughts and insights to the EP.

The writing and recording of The Mannequin started in earnest in mid to late July and ended in early August. I had to start Cute Scenarios from scratch because my hard drive with the album and a half that I had recorded became useless from a slip of my hands. Hold on to those hard drives with a kung-fu grip, Y'all. That among other bonehead mistakes, (all my fault, By the way), is why that album won't see the light of day for a while.

Once I decided to start fresh, I recorded a song that never, ever got it's due. From Here has been knocking around for four year before getting properly recorded. Even though it was an old song, it got the recording juices flowing.

Once I got done doing the preliminary stuff on From Here, I wanted to experiment. I had heard that the super fast synth on Pink Floyd's On The Run was made by recording it as slow as they could and then speeding it up as fast as it would go in the synth...not on tape. So that's what I did. I set the recording tempo to as slow as I could, played a pattern for fifteen minuets and then sped it up to as fast as it would go. The end result after adding and adding TONS of stuff is the last track Down The Rabbit Hole.

Right now, I'm going to go track by track and give you a sentence or two about the songs:

1. The Mannequin: An instrumental piano rocker. Ben Folds was a HUGE inspiration on the piano playing.

2. Arbitration Cinema: The coolest drums I've ever programed. The lyrics were all made up to be the worst B-movie taglines ever.

3. The Fingle Dopple: If you truly get the reference and don't have to look it up on the internet, I'll buy you a drink.

4. From Here: We do preform this song every once and again. When we get the recording equipment, We'll get you a version with joie on it because she adds so much more to this song.

5. Her Knight in Black Armor: Written RIGHT after The Mannequin. I wrote this to score the video I made. Check it out in the Videos section.

6. Down The Rabbit Hole: It was crazy working on this. It's actually a Frankenstein's monster of it's self. Every sound except the drums, the birds and one synth sound are disfigured versions of the first musical line.

Well I hope that was at least a little informational. I really hopeYou decide to spend the five bucks and help your new, favorite, local band record. *wink*

The Mannequin EP Anouncement

     Today, we have an exciting announcement, The first Cute Scenarios EP,  The Mannequin, is now up for download on the Cute Scenarios Bandcamp page. Jono had some trepidation about making people pay for this seeing as 1) It's not an accurate representation of where Cute Scenarios are as a band right now. Which leads me to reason 2) The recording process for this EP was basically done before joie became a member of the band.
     Those sound like major reasons to put the breaks on releasing the EP, right? Well joie & Jono thought it was the right thing to do...as a fundraiser. See, right after mixing the last song on The Mannequin, Jono's computer started acting up and shutting down once his laptop got too hot. Multiple computer repair shops could not diagnose a problem, Even though it persisted. Now it's in a sort of Computer Limbo where it's just stored and not even used anymore.
     Neither Cute Scenarios as a collective entity nor personally can afford to pay for a new computer or recording time with even a neophyte producer/engineer so we are coming to you, our amazing fans. We are asking you to help fund our next album/recording career.
     If you decide to buy our EP on bandcamp, it will cost a flat $5.00 for six songs. You can also buy a limited edition physical copy* which will cost $6.00. To buy a physical copy, Please get in touch with us through Facebook or you can Email us.
     joie and Jono are, as we speak, planning more fundraising opportunities that will go towards getting recording equipment so that we can get some music to you as fast as we can. BUT that doesn't mean that you should pass on this chance to get an awesome EP and a vital part to this bands history! It may not be around forever...just saying.

P.S. Jono will post a few words on the EP later today.


*how limited? Only 10 Copies were printed. GET ON IT!

The Creative Process

If you've checked the site for the past month (and I wouldn't blame you if you didn't because this thing is H A R D L Y ever updated) you may have seen us mention that we plan on writing new songs. But up to this point it's been all conjecture and you've seen no hard evidence that music making is going on.

The simple truth as to why we haven't said anything about it is because until just Tuesday night no songs were written. For me, it's really hard to write music after a long while of not even thinking of a musical idea. I'm sure some people ((cough)) joie ((cough)) would call bullshit on that but I bullshit you not. It's a little daunting to write music. Sure, there have been tons of things* that have made me want to get off my ass and pick up a guitar or keyboard and get to it. But I psych myself out and think that I'd just make the same folk songs and blah, blah, blah...so what would be the point.

All of that was just a roundabout way of saying that I wrote a song! Yay! ((confetti rains down)) What happened was On Tuesday I was hanging out with joie and we were watching a TV drama and she was talking about guys that caused her some problems in the past. I thought the conversation was more or less an "airing of the grievances" until I was driving home and POP!

A melody came into my head. and a few seconds later I thought of two lines almost simultaneously. I tried to develop the kernel I had while driving the rest of the way home then the second I got inside my room, I picked up my guitar and tried to figure out what chords went to the half remembered (now nearly completely forgotten) melody. After working for about an hour and a half, I was able to get some lyrics and a structure by 1.30 at which time I grabbed a Futurama DVD and went to bed.

When I woke up The next day I fleshed out some things and then all of a sudden I realized that my work on it alone was finished. Now it's up to joie to put her fingerprints on it.The music sounds like Foo Fighters covering Hüsker Dü. You might be saying that Foo Fighters already sound like they're doing Hüsker Dü covers to which I say You'll just have to listen to the song, then.

The weird thing about Wednesday is that almost immediately after finishing the song for joie, I wrote music for another one. I can't explain this one to you. The only thing I can tell you about it is that we're finally working with dynamics. I've never done that as a songwriter, it feels really good.

We're not even done yet. joie has a song or two that we're going to get to work on whenever we can. The Cute Scenarios universe is very exciting now. So my hope is that we can finish these songs and play them for you in a manner most pleasing to you, whether Live or on re-chord, sometime soon. Ultimately, I would like to have an EP written and ready for recording by the start of Fall.

...We'll see if that happens.

*Lykke Li, Jon Hoppkins, The new Of Montreal record: False Priest, The new Arcade Fire record: The Suburbs

It Wasn't the Fire, It Wasn't the Flood

The Tutu 5K is now safely laid to rest until next year. As some of you may know, Mr & Mrs. Smith (Hollis) played that show. The event was the first time ANYONE had seen the act in person before. It was such an amazing set.

So Friday I went to joie's house where Hollis was staying and just played around for a few hours. After the awkwardness of not knowing what to play was too much to stand, I suggested we come up with something. I called out a chord structure and then lyrics came. Coming up with the lyrics was hard because almost everything now is played out...and we got sidetracked by conversations.

When it came time to record the song, we thought the best place to do it would be the cab of Hollis's pick up as to not bother anyone in the apartment and we wouldn't get background noise from doing it in open air.

So Hollis in drivers seat facing back, making her leg fall asleep, and me in the back facing front, having trouble closing the door...did I mention that the truck was on a sideways incline?

The only thing I personly regret was not getting joie on the recording. While we were writing she came up with some growls and things but when it was time to record, she had a migraine and had to lay down.

Check out It Wasn't The Fire, It Wasn't The Flood by Jono and Hollis. More songs are sure to come but maybe not for a while what with the distance between Texas and Florida.

Mixtape time 1: Love In A Hole

I spent the past hour making a mix and I want to share it with you. It tells a story of guy who gets out of a bad relationship (we don't know how exactly). But he tries stuff, he runs into his ex and then realizes a lot about himself.

Love In A Hole

2/4/11

01. Learning The Game : Buddy Holly

02. Knock Your Self Out : Jon Brion

03. Time to Pretend : MGMT

04. Always for You : The Album Leaf

05. Lover I don’t have to love : Bright Eyes

06. Walking With A Ghost : Tegan and Sarah

07. Some Time Around Midnight : The Airborne Toxic Event

08. The Last High : The Dandy Warhols

09. The Party is Crashing : of Montreal

10. Fences : Phoenix

11. Keep Yourself Warm : Frightened Rabbit

12. Foreground : Grizzly Bear

If you listen to it, I really hope you enjoy it.

Happy as you and me.

I got reminded of this song today because news came out that a record label would release the first three albums of The Kinks. If you've not heard this song before, you're welcome.

Mutual Love Shack

Summer is almost here--bloody hell, Eh? Cool time pool time. By mid-summer we should have some new songs to grow in your head like ear wigs. Awesome. no?

Last Friday, I had the immeasurable pleasure of meeting, in person, Hollis Smith of Mr. & Mrs. Smith. I'm 50% sure that if you're reading this you know who Mr. & Mrs. Smith are...but still. The reason I mention this is because pretty soon, CS and Smith will be joining forces for a song or two. It's going to be amazing. AHHH collaboration.

Notes from the back side of the Backroom

Jono probably said it best. The Backroom show was one preceded by much trepidation, and let's face it, a little liquid courage. You can see by the look on my face here that I was in need of a Captain Morgan infusion STAT. And yet, like all good things, the show was not at all what I expected, and it felt like an explosive victory. I must interject here that my much anticipated dress proved a personal disappointment, but this is an ongoing problem in my little barbie brain.

Moving on, it merits note that Jono busted open the show with a solo set which gave me goosebumps. Also, in his infinite grace and mercy, my bandmate included Top Five in his solo set, and rocked it! We have performed this song together on a couple of occasions, but in spite if finding it a great song, I've never enjoyed performing it myself. Now I know why. That song is all Jono, and there is nothing to be gained by adding to that mix.

All in all, it was a night to remember and an experience for which I am grateful. This Saturday is the Houston City Dance Tutu 5k and After-party at Brian O'Neill's in Rice Village. It benefits Camp HOPE (a camp for kids living with HIV/AIDS) and is the current focal point of our collective existence. Register for it now at https://register.raceassist.com ! Once tutu mayhem has settled, Jono and I look forward to buckling down and working hard to create new and exciting things for you to feast your ears on.

Bisou bisou,
--joie

My thoughts of our first headline show

So we're a few days away from the show on the 19th. It was our third show and our First headlining show. What an exhilarating experience. I've been to and in a LOT of local shows but this show was the best. The first band up was SixL6. I talked to them beforehand and they thought playing acoustically would be a problem, it wasn't. It fits their music, which is southern rock with a splash of subtle alternativeness, perfectly. Man, they were also a TIGHT three-piece. This week they go into the studio to cut their first EP, so be on the look out for that.

Next was a band called Bad Channel. Like this band on facebook, see them live. Do whatever you can to see this band live. They are mind 'sploding. I had the pleasure of playing bass for the band a few months ago and they blew me away then so when I had the opportunity to put this show together, the first band I wanted was Bad Channel. I can't say enough great things about this band. When they get big, and play stadiums, I hope they remember the ol' Cute Scenarios and maybe we can get a free Bad Channel show if not the chance to open up for them.

Closing out the night was your friendly, neighborhood, Cute Scenarios. I was so nervous for this show. joie and I as a unit have never done anything like this.It's kind of Scary and a bit daunting the first time out. We stepped from under the protective wing of Cheers 2U and The Raygun. Our feet were in the fire and I think we glowed. Our first song was an of Montreal ditty called Sex Karma. We also premiered a song called Climate Change. Unfortunately Joie doesn't sing much on this song, but when she does...Nearly euphoric. When her voice is on, you can't beat it. The only thing I regret about the show was that we forgot to put in our song called My Heroin(e). Biggest oversight ever.

So now we're gearing up for the Tutu 5K which is this Saturday! Be sure to come out and remember to bring the family. It's a great event for a great cause.

Be well,

Jono

Think fast: new show.

I am writing this post to inform you of a show we have next Saturday the 19th at The Backroom (behind The Mink).One of the bands playing there will be, new friends to CS, Bad Channel. They are a really tight and fun band. Jono has known, the rhythm guitarist and songwritter, Carlos Hernandez for years. This show will be VERY good! Check the Cute Scenarios facebook for our time.

Here's a question to think on... What the hell is up with Parkore?

Feb 25th pt.2

I'm sure it's been said before but I thought I should mention it again. We have a show on the 25th of this month. There is a poster in the post below. It's 21+ But it's a free show. Show starts at nine so DON'T BE LATE!

Be there or be un-cool!

2.25.2011

That's right! in a matter of days joie and Jono will be playing another show. The Raygun asked CS to open for them again and not being a band to turn down an opportunity of any kind, they said yes.

For those wondering what the set will consist of...They will play only one song that you've heard before, the rest will be new to you. New Covers, new look (Yes, Jono has vowed not to wear the never-nude shorts in public again.)

So Come out to the free show!

Ice Holes

How bout that Ice, huh? Throughout this entire week the ONLY word anyone in Houston news could say is "snow"...Aaand nothing. There is a lot of ice though. There was all kinds of ice on my car today. It's days like these that I wish my laptop were working. Well, I always wish my laptop were working BUT this is different.

There is an album I got for Christmas last year called The Age of Adz by Sufjan Stevens. It was hard to get into at first. The electronic sound just wasn't what I was expecting. There were woodwinds and lots of orchpop orchestration but the synthesized beats and blips and creaks totally caught me off guard. It took a few months but I love this record.

Alright, my cat needs food. I'll talkatchya later.

The Rain In Spain Falls Mainly On The Plain

joie and myself hope you're getting ready for the 5K and the blindingly fun after-arty-party. We're working on our set right now. We'll be playing about 99% new material. An amazing time will be had by all.

Yesterday I was practicing photography. I did an abstract self-portrait series of my wife and I, then I went out into my neighborhood and snapped some photos. But before I did that, I took picture that I'm dedicating to joie. Pretty soon, once we get to the point when we can use backing tracks, when not singing, joie will be playing bass guitar. So enough talk, here it is:

To see the rest of the photos I took, click the picture.

Anyway, I just wanted to show that to you guys. Hopefully I'll find more stuff to blog about and make this site worthy of coming back again and again.

WE HAVE A SHOW!!

It's going to be Saturday the 26th of March in Rice Village. For more info, go to our "Dates" page.

!!!

We have a free gift for just visiting our website! It's the full version of our of Montreal - Famine Affair remix. Check out the side bar for the link!

Awesome Legs, Great Job

Nice case wicha my legs, nice case wicha my legs. Nice case wicha my legs, nice case wicha my legs. Nice case wicha my legs, nice case wicha my legs. Nice case wicha my legs, nice case wicha my legs. Nice case wicha my legs, nice case wicha my legs. Nice case wicha my legs, nice case wicha my legs. Nice case wicha my legs, nice case wicha my legs.

Body Massage

Mr. Body Massage Machine...GO!

Letting go of Christmas

Christmas has been gone for about 2 weeks now. I hate when Christmas goes as soon as it comes, it's so anti-climactic. But I got some great gifts and more importantly I gave some great gifts. One gift I got was the Tron: Legacy soundtrack. It's so awesome! Like all Daft Punk albums, It's great headphone fodder. It's also so epic, which was something I thought was lacking in the Tron soundtrack from 1982. The movie it's self is also breath taking. I recommend it.

I hope the holidays were good to you. My New Years resolution is to play more shows, hopefully we can do that. Everybody wins there.