Decibel (2024) Movie Script
1
(ominous eerie music)
(distant plane engines roaring)
(traffic hums and whooshes)
(patrons chattering)
(locks clacking)
(bag unzips)
(amplifier buzzes)
(cup clatters)
(cup clatters)
(cup clattering)
(uptempo percussive
music using cup sample)
I went to the ocean
And I couldn't find a bed
I went to the seaside
And I couldn't find the dead
I couldn't find the dead
I looked for a lady
But she didn't like to say
What she really wanted
I know something that a-way
I know it was
(cup clacking)
Jesus Christ.
That was a pretty neat trick.
Oh, uh...
Yeah. Thanks.
It's pretty simple stuff.
Well, give yourself
the credit you deserve.
That's a unique talent.
I'm Donna Alby.
Decibel?
Yeah.
Oh! Oh, um, the
Shin Splints, right?
They're recording at
my studio as we speak.
And you came to see my show?
Wait. (Chuckles)
That, that is so cool.
I, I'm sorry. I'm Scout.
How did you even find me?
Have you ever considered
how your sound might
improve in a new setting?
Oh, I mean, I don't know.
I usually make stuff
in my own space.
I'd like to invite you to
record at Decibel Studios.
We'll call it an experiment.
And if we're successful,
you can expect more than
60 bucks and a drink.
(Donna chuckles)
I guess I just think
of it as paying my dues.
You need to be working
at the next level, Scout.
And I have the tools
to make that happen.
(ominous music)
Think about it.
Don't let your
talent go to waste.
I have a good feeling
about this, Scout.
I'm glad we met.
(ominous music continues)
(phone bleeps)
[Bailey] Hey,
Scout. It's Bailey.
Listen, I don't wanna make
this awkward or whatever,
but the collective elected me
to ask you about resident dues
and there's a lot of
talk about raising rent,
and it ain't good.
Anyway, call me or come over.
We should, we should talk.
Okay.
(Scout breathes deeply)
(mid-tempo percussive music)
[Bailey] We should talk.
Whatever.
Talk.
Whatever.
Listen. Listen.
Whatever.
Listen. Listen.
Whatever.
We should talk.
Raising rent. Dues.
Raising rent.
Listen. Listen.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
Listen. Listen.
Raising Rent. Ain't good.
We should talk.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
Dues.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
We should talk.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
Dues.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
We should talk.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
Dues.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
We should talk. Listen, listen.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
Listen, listen.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
(mid-tempo percussive
music continues)
(metronome clacks rhythmically)
(heartbeat thumping)
(wind chimes ringing)
(fly buzzes)
(metronome clacking)
(wind chimes ringing)
(metronome clicks)
(watch chirps)
(Scout humming melodically)
(Scout humming melodically)
(Scout humming melodically)
(Scout humming melodically)
(Scout humming melodically)
(dark electronic music)
(Scout humming melodically)
(gentle music)
(car door clicks open)
(car door slams)
Welcome to Decibel.
(wind chimes ringing)
I'm so glad you decided to come.
Wow. (Chuckles)
It's gorgeous here.
(Donna chuckles)
Certainly remote.
(distant coyotes yelping)
Come on in.
I'll give you the tour.
(footsteps clacking)
(gentle music continues)
(door clicks open)
[Scout] How long
have you lived here?
Not long.
I needed some space,
after leaving ViLi.
Figured 150 acres would do.
(footsteps clacking)
Can't wait to get out there.
Record some desert sounds.
(Donna sighs)
I am so excited
that you're here.
You made the right choice,
accepting my invitation.
I can't wait to get to work.
Your room is right down there.
But first, there's some people
I think you'll wanna meet.
(cicadas chirping)
I'd like you to meet
a friend of mine.
This is Scout.
I loved your last record.
(Lee sighs)
I am sorry, Donna.
He's just mad we have to leave.
You're gonna join us for
dinner tonight, right?
Of course.
I'm just showing
her her room now.
I'll let you know
when dinner's ready.
This room is beautiful.
Oh, I like my artists
to be comfortable.
Thank you.
Oh, this is one of yours, right?
(suspenseful music)
Yes.
The ViLi Monitor.
Decibel was founded
on her success.
When was the last time you
had your breasts examined?
Excuse me? (Chuckles)
A mammogram.
It's important.
(monitor chimes)
(suspenseful music continues)
(monitor ringing)
(monitor bleeps)
All clear.
No wonder you're a billionaire.
So, then...
Why music?
It's about as far away from
healthcare as you can get.
They're more closely related
than you'd think. (Chuckles)
When I was at ViLi, we
were making real headway
into how sound impacts
physical health.
What'd you find?
The board of
directors let me go,
before I had much of a
chance to figure it out.
I know I did good work at ViLi,
touchless cancer
screenings, the ana patch,
my needleless anesthetic,
and new vaccines.
I gave everything
for my company.
But being pushed out
helped me find the essence of
what I always wanted to do.
Music.
A good song can be
a benison as well.
In a way, it saved my life.
I don't know if
music saved my life,
but I'd die to keep making it.
That's gorgeous, Scout.
That's the type of
dedication we need.
And we'll have a little
fun too, right? (Chuckles)
I'll come collect you
when it's time for dinner.
(brooding electronic music)
"Life without music
is meaningless."
(dirt crunches under footsteps)
(insects buzzing)
(wind whistling)
(insects buzzing)
(intense whooshing)
(animals chirping)
(Scout humming melodically)
(Scout humming melodically)
(distant muffled chattering)
[Jackie] I don't care.
[Donna] (indistinct)
Be professional.
(gentle acoustic guitar music)
(Scout chuckles)
(gentle acoustic guitar music)
Oh, come on.
Really?
Your first record, right?
I love this one.
Last night I dreamed
I was a radio
And you were coming through
me like my favorite song
Dreamed I was a radio.
And you were coming through
me like my favorite song
You were coming through
me like my favorite song
You were coming through
me like my favorite song
(heartbeat thumping)
(ominous music)
(fork clatters)
Lee, make yourself useful.
Thank you.
(cicadas chirping)
(chair creaks)
So, uh...
What's it been like,
working with Donna?
Mm.
She's a bit intense.
Like how?
Man, don't look so worried.
She's, uh, she's, she's cool.
Think of it like she's
a, like, a bit eccentric.
(dark swelling music)
Hey.
Stick 'em up.
Griff.
You're right on time.
Kimosabe.
[Griff] Just you people.
Griffin...
This is Scout.
- Griff.
- Scout.
We are so lucky
to have her here.
Her music will lead
us into the future.
To the future, huh?
No pressure.
Griffin will be your
engineer for the week.
Oh, I wasn't planning
on using an engineer.
I don't, usually.
Nice to meet you, too.
Yeah, when you see the studio
tomorrow, you'll understand.
Griff, settle an
argument for us.
Donna's been talking
about this all night.
Do you think there's, uh, such
a thing as a perfect sound?
Silence?
That wasn't the question.
The question was whether there's
a perfect frequency, right?
A...
An undiscovered waveform.
I want no part of
this conversation.
You know, songs
aren't just waveforms,
or whatever the fuck.
I don't think you get it.
You don't even play
an instrument, right?
No, you're right, Lee.
No, I don't play.
I haven't played since I
was a child. (Chuckles)
But I'm not pretending
to still be a rock star.
(Lee chuckles)
Excuse me.
(footsteps clacking)
(gentle music)
(door thuds)
Lee.
- Give me a break, Jack.
- She doesn't give a shit.
She's kicking us
out tomorrow anyway.
(lighter flicks)
Who needs a refill?
(dark music)
(distant singing)
(gentle acoustic guitar music)
And you were coming through
me like my favorite song
Dreamed I was a radio
And you were coming through
me like my favorite song
(garbled music)
Coming through me like
[Scout] Is she
always that tough?
She's got a lot to prove.
She's invested.
How long have you
worked for her?
On and off for a couple years.
It's all freelance,
but it pays well.
Donna's a lot of things,
but cheap ain't one of 'em.
Do you like her?
Yeah.
Sure.
She's kind of mean,
but, uh, she's the only
billionaire I've ever met.
Maybe that's just
how they all are.
I don't know what
I'm doing here.
It's a cool opportunity, right?
Early days for the studio, but
Donna's a successful person.
She'll win out here too,
I think. Eventually.
But like, The Shin
Splints. I mean...
Am I taking their studio time?
Tune that shit out.
They'll be all right.
Donna sees something in you.
Best case scenario,
you get a record deal.
Worst case scenario, you get
a few good songs out of it.
Yeah.
Hey.
Do you wanna see the studio?
(eerie music)
(dirt crunches under footsteps)
(lock chimes)
(door whooshes)
(door whooshes)
(door slams)
This is the fancy studio?
(Griff chuckles)
[Griff] Uh-huh.
Where's the gear?
I know it sounds crazy,
but the room is the gear.
Everything in here is connected.
You have a thousand individual
microphones, 2,000 speakers,
all in the walls, all
communicating with each other.
No need for any wires.
Don't need to plug
in any instruments.
I don't even see
any instruments.
It's so much more
than that, Scout.
Here.
Put these on.
They connect you to the studio.
Makes everything streamlined.
[Scout] Really?
(bracelet clicks)
Step in.
Sing anything.
Promise you're not
gonna be disappointed.
(door whirring)
Give me a vocal.
Literally anything.
Anything you like.
Okay.
Um...
Well, I have been working
on like one thing,
but it's not really ready yet.
[Griff] No pressure.
I'm an anarchist
Give me chaos, give me
fury and a late-night kiss
Yeah, something like
that. I don't know.
Okay. Take a listen.
I'm an anarchist
Give me chaos, give me
fury and a late-night kiss
Can I add to it?
Yeah. Anything you like.
Think of it this way.
Those bracelets connect you
to all the equipment in the
walls, those mics and speakers.
And that touchscreen functions
like any instrument
you can imagine.
It's a keyboard, horn,
sampler, drum machine.
You just swipe through it.
Donna programmed it herself.
(monitor chirps)
(kick drum thumping)
(mellow electronic music)
I'm an anarchist
Give me chaos, give me
fury and a late-night kiss
From a man I know who's
not the best for me
I'm a cynic when I'm in it
I'm a witness to my own
destructive thoughts
Overwritten, overwrought
I want the best for you
If it's the worst for me
I want the best for you
If it's the worst for me
Wait. That is so intuitive.
It sounds great.
I'm gonna loop it, okay?
I'm a nihilist
I'm sick of tryin' this
I'm getting high on this
It's a feeling that I
like, I won't come down, no
It's the worst for me
I want the best for you
If it's the worst
(ominous music)
(door thuds)
(Donna sighs)
I wanted to be
here when you met.
Yeah, I'm, I'm really
sorry. I should've asked.
I know this is your baby.
Um, I was just really excited.
And so when Griff said
that we could come to.
Do you like it?
The studio?
This is the coolest
thing I've ever seen.
Good.
Now, tell me.
What is your first
memory of music, Scout?
(gentle music)
Oh, um.
I don't know.
Sitting in the pew with
my grandparents, I guess.
Yeah.
They built this old organ in
the back of the sanctuary.
Sometimes the sermons
were pretty boring.
But I liked the hymns.
"Ave Maria".
"How Great Thou Art".
Every Sunday.
Well...
We are creatures of habit.
Aren't we?
What about you? First
memory of music?
My mother, she was
a piano teacher.
Did she teach you how to play?
She certainly tried.
(eerie music)
Can you do me a favor, scout?
Can you tell me what that is?
(organ chord drones)
This chord?
It's B-flat.
Is this a church organ?
You messing with me?
And this?
What is this? Like a test?
Don't think of it that way.
Please.
Humor me.
Um...
F-sharp, but this is
like grade school shit.
Oh! If it's so easy,
then what comes next?
In the scale?
No.
What chord should come next?
What is the best
decision, musically?
Use the monitor in front of you.
Um...
B-flat.
F-sharp.
D-sharp-minor.
F-major.
Eh.
Like this.
(brooding organ music)
Yeah.
Yeah, I...
Did I pass your test?
I told you it's not a
test, but if it was?
With flying colors.
(crickets chirping)
(water splashing)
(muffled organ music)
(muffled organ music)
(crickets chirping)
(muffled organ music)
(muffled organ music)
(feedback rings)
(discordant organ music)
(door slams)
(ominous music)
(distorted electronic
tones buzzing)
[Scout] What's it been
like, working with Donna?
(eerie percussive music)
Can't wait to get out there.
Record some desert sounds.
Record some desert sounds.
I'm an anarchist
(distorted and garbled vocals)
[Donna] Perfect frequency.
(distorted and garbled vocals)
(eerie music continues)
An undiscovered waveform.
(eerie music continues)
(coyote howls)
(door creaks)
You're up early.
Yeah! Yeah, you too.
Hey, have you seen Donna?
Not this morning.
I think she's avoiding us.
Did you have a session
with her yesterday?
I thought I heard someone
playing in the studio.
She wouldn't let us back
in that studio if we asked.
And look, I know last night
ended sort of weird or whatever,
but Lee had too much to drink.
You know how it goes.
He's in the car right
now, still hungover.
All good, all good.
I get it.
[Jackie] I just don't want
you to think that Donna's
worse than she is.
[Griff] Hey.
Didn't think we'd see
you again, Griffy.
Think I'd miss this
pathetic sendoff?
Was fun working with you, Jack.
Wish your boss felt the same.
Yeah.
Tough crowd.
But we made some good shit.
You guys made some good
shit. Be sure of that.
I'll send you mastered
versions in a few weeks.
Remember, you're
making your record. Okay?
Nobody else's.
Give 'em hell, Scout.
(door clicks open)
(door thuds)
Well, we have some
time before our session.
I have some hangover beers.
You wanna go for a walk?
Hell yeah.
(cicadas chirping)
So, you make your own music?
Nah. Just a lowly sound tech.
Oh, whatever.
Had a band for a while.
Got tired of eating ramen,
having six roommates.
Had to get a real job.
Trust me. I get it.
I never totally stopped
playing, though.
I have a little studio up
here, actually. Just for fun.
No shit.
Hey, I wanna see it.
We should be getting back.
Donna's pretty fuckin' punctual.
Do you have actual
instruments in your studio?
(door creaks)
(door thuds)
So, you're a hoarder.
These are all left
over from Studio 1.0.
(acoustic guitar strums)
Hm.
Can't imagine that studio
having instruments.
Yeah. It didn't last long.
She, uh, pulled 'em all out,
when she started
programming the new system.
(cymbal ringing)
(snare drum rattling)
(kick drum thumping)
We should really get going.
Sit your ass down and play.
(gentle acoustic guitar music)
I could love you
Oh, If you want me to
(Scout hums melodically)
I could love you
Oh, if you want me to
And you could love me too
Or I could hate you, oh
If you want me to
You could hate me too
Whatever you want or need
Whatever you wish I'll be
I'll be anything,
I'll be anything
Key chain on your
favorite keys
Shirt that you got
from Palm Springs
I'll be anything
(eerie music)
I'll be anything
Living across the road
I'll do anything I'm told
Maybe even
(distorted vocals)
I could love you, oh
If you want me to
And you could love me too
(cymbal ringing)
(button clicks)
You know, I don't normally
work with an engineer.
(Scout chuckles)
Fuck off.
[Griff] We should
really get back.
I don't wanna keep
Donna waiting.
Okay. Fine.
(cymbal crashes)
(birds chirping)
(distant coyote howls)
Uh, gotta be at least 50 years.
I actually got it from
this shop down the street.
It needs some love,
but does the trick.
How nice of you to show.
You're 15 minutes late.
So that was my fault. I,
uh, I was asking for a tour.
The time for tours
was yesterday.
Well, we're here now.
It was kind of like, um,
like an inspiration thing,
to start my day?
Like getting me a
little, little warmed up.
When you're a
guest in my studio,
I decide how you warm up.
Is that fair?
Yeah.
No, absolutely.
Good.
You two get to work.
Who knows what exciting
discoveries we'll make today.
(mellow electronic music)
I see your face
I feel the same
I see your shade
It's all the same
Who are you tonight
Who are you tonight
Who are you tonight
(Scout groans)
Fuck!
Can't figure out
this goddamn chorus.
(studio whirs down)
You'll figure it out.
Come on back. Let's
take a little break.
We can listen in here.
(dark music)
(Donna breathes deeply)
So that's it right there.
It's just not melding.
[Scout] I know. I can hear it.
I don't need a
fuckin' PowerPoint.
Just trying to help.
(sighs) This is why
I work alone, you know?
I can spend a whole week
on a sound, if I want to.
It, this is just,
it's too stressful,
trying to get a whole
fucking song in a day.
And with you watching me.
[Griff] It's all right.
You'll get there.
[Scout] Sorry.
[Griff] Do you wanna call it?
[Scout] Oh, yeah. I'm starving.
Totally cool.
(Donna sighs)
We'll finish your
track tomorrow.
I won't be late.
Goodnight, Scout. Sleep well.
(light buzzing)
(ominous music)
Hey.
Are you taking a break?
We're calling it for
the day, actually.
It's a little early,
don't you think?
We've been at it for 12 hours.
She's tired. I'm tired.
We almost finished
an entire song.
No, it's not only
about the song!
(ominous music continues)
You should know that by now. I.
I need you to get
more output from her.
12 hours is more than
enough output, Donna.
You can't force this shit.
I think you need to
take some time off.
[Griff] Oh, come on.
You said it yourself.
You're tired.
I'll finish with her.
- How?
- Pack your things, Griffin!
Clear the studio!
You know what?
Good luck.
Good fuckin' luck.
You can't do this on your own.
I won't have to.
(footsteps clacking)
(door creaks)
(door slams)
(thunder claps)
(garbled and
distorted organ music)
(muffled crickets chirping)
(muffled thunder rumbling)
I could love you, oh
If you want me to
And you could love me too
Or I could hate you, oh
If you want me to
And you could hate me too
(eerie music)
(distant coyote yelping)
Who are you tonight
Who are you
Who are you
You, you, you, you, you
(distorted vocals)
(mellow electronic music)
I could love you
Dreamed I was a radio
Who are you tonight
(eerie music swelling)
(distant coyote howls)
(insects buzzing)
(distant coyote howls)
(insects buzzing and chirping)
(grass rustles)
(distant coyote howls)
(coyote barks)
Fuck.
(distant coyotes howling)
(coyotes howling)
(coyote howls)
(coyote howls)
(suspenseful music)
(coyotes howling)
(coyotes howling)
(suspenseful music continues)
(coyote howls)
(coyotes howling)
(intense electronic music)
(intense electronic
music swells)
(metronome clacks rhythmically)
(door thuds)
Oh.
I'm sorry. I didn't
know you were.
Good morning.
(metronome clacks rhythmically)
Putting the microphone
to good use, I see.
Oh, yeah.
Why is it scratched?
Oh, I accidentally
dropped it a couple times.
If I had known you were
gonna be so careless,
I would've gotten you
a less expensive one.
Uh...
Sorry?
Most of my stuff is
kinda scraped up.
I use it.
You know?
There's breakfast set
out, just over there.
Please eat!
You'll need your energy.
That's great. Thanks.
You know, I accidentally
dropped the mic yesterday
when I was trying
to record a coyote.
Do you mind if I
put something on
from your session yesterday?
I'd love for you
to hear it. It's...
It's gorgeous.
Yeah.
Sure.
(watch chirps)
(food crunching)
(heartbeat thumping)
(substances squelching
and bubbling)
(heartbeat thumping)
What is that?
It's you, Scout.
I'm sorry.
What?
Well, our studio measures
your bio rhythms, your,
your breath, your heartbeat.
Even your blood flow.
Music comes from within.
Wouldn't you agree?
(heartbeat thumping)
That's...
(substances squelching
and bubbling)
That's really weird.
Will you turn that off?
(watch chirps)
(speakers whirring down)
Breakthroughs come from
total self alignment.
You have to listen closely to
yourself. That's how we learn.
Um...
Okay.
Thank you.
This was a great breakfast,
but I should probably
head to the studio.
I promised Griff that
I wouldn't be late.
It's just you and
me today, Scout.
Where's Griff?
[Donna] I don't need
anyone distracting you.
No, he wasn't distracting me!
Well, try something
different today.
Different how?
I understand this might
feel a bit unconventional.
The future always is.
(Scout scoffs)
I believe your time is valuable.
I'm willing to prove it.
Uh, 15,000 for a session?
Do I need a lawyer
or something for this?
It's this simple. I
I'm offering my studio
for you to record in,
and I'm paying
you for your time.
Think of it as a way for us
to explore our relationship.
If we get to the point
where we need contracts,
we'll get you representation.
Okay, that's really
generous, Donna.
Who do I make the check out to?
Scout clearly isn't
your given name.
(tense music)
Let's start with a warmup.
What kind of warmup?
Let's do some scales.
[Scout] You're kidding, right?
Not at all.
It's important to
build from basics.
Are you embarrassed?
Do, re, me, fa,
so, la, te, do
Okay, once more.
But harmonize this time.
Give me a fourth.
Do, re, me, fa
Fa
Do, re, me, fa,
so, la, te, do
Okay, now, this time
I don't know how long
I'm gonna be here,
and I'd like to make
as many songs as I can.
So, do you think we could
get back to my song soon?
Let's do one more.
For good measure.
F again, please.
Do, re, me, fa,
so, la, te, do
Bravo.
Awesome.
So, I wanted to
revisit the harmonies
from the track that
we did yesterday,
and then move on to the bridge.
Oh, if that's where
you'd like to begin,
then that's where we'll begin.
(moody electronic music)
Who are you tonight
Who are you tonight
(studio whirs down)
Very good. Moving on.
What?
I wanted to add some more layers
and then I was gonna go to.
We've got what we need.
Replication is not creation.
Look, Donna, I know that
you're paying me for my time
and I appreciate that,
really, but I know
what my songs need.
Oh, I keep forgetting
you've never worked
with a producer before.
(Donna chuckles)
That's not what
I'm talking about.
Promise it's for your own good.
We've spent too much time
on this song already.
You don't know that.
Actually, I do.
Now let's move on.
I actually have a, a
little treat for you.
I wonder if you'd like to find
the vocal melody for this.
(mellow electronic music)
What is that?
Something that we've
been working on.
[Scout] You made this?
Inspired by you, of course.
- This isn't my song.
- Please.
Find the melody.
(Scout hums melodically)
Louder.
(Scout hums melodically)
Good!
Now let's find the lyrics.
Well, don't stop.
Um
I'd like to get
back to my music.
[Donna] This is
your music, Scout.
I, I want my track back up.
Your bio rhythms
are giving you away.
I can see from my monitor here
that you're frustrated with me.
No shit.
What's upsetting you so much?
Respectfully,
Donna, this just...
This isn't what I came here for.
(door rattles)
Unlock the door. (Eerie music)
I know you found
one of my speakers
in the desert this morning.
Why didn't you say anything?
(coyotes howling)
(eerie music continues)
Funny, Donna. Let me out, now!
My mother
used to lock me
in our music room,
the week before every recital.
And you know what?
It worked every time.
Donna, let me out! Now!
(Scout pants)
(door whooshes)
(door creaks)
(Scout pants)
(dark music)
You're onto it now.
(studio crackling)
(Scout pants)
(Scout humming melodically)
[Scout] So, you
make your own music?
(coyote howls)
I don't know what
I'm doing here.
This is the coolest
thing I've ever seen.
Who are, who are,
who are, who are you
(cacophonous reverberating
speech and singing)
Stop it!
(Scout pants)
(Scout pants)
(birds chirping)
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
(tense electronic music)
(ominous tones)
It's just me.
I want to talk.
There's so much for
us to do, Scout.
Get outta my way!
You remember my
ana patch, right?
My needleless anesthetic?
It's perfectly safe.
I'll keep calm,
but you should too.
It's better that way.
(objects clattering)
(Donna sighs)
Just breathe.
Ten.
Nine.
Eight.
Seven.
Six.
Five.
(ominous music)
Four.
Three.
Two.
One.
(dark piano music)
(psychedelic electronic music)
(metal scraping)
Donna.
Donna!
What do you want?
I'll do whatever you want.
Just please let me go.
Please.
We have work to do first.
Why are you doing this?
Something revolutionary
is happening here, Scout.
You are so special.
I'm trying to help you see it!
I went to the
Please just let me go.
Here's the problem. (Chuckles)
Recently, my computer
stopped advancing.
(studio buzzing)
She stopped learning,
even though I was feeding her
all kinds of music, but...
You.
Oh, she loves you.
Radio
You can have my music.
You can keep it.
Anything you want.
No, it is so much
bigger than your music!
Imagine a world where all
music is, is tailor made,
auto-generated from a
listener's bio rhythms.
Everyone will have their
own custom compositions,
based on their, their
preferences, their,
their mood, their, their
most personal feelings,
and on demand, anywhere,
never to be replicated!
That is where we are headed!
(Donna breathes deeply)
I needed to be first. (Chuckles)
I don't want to.
I don't want to.
It's non-negotiable, I'm afraid.
So...
(Scout pants)
Are you ready to play with us?
Please help me.
Help me, please, somebody!
(bracelets buzzing)
(sinister electronic music)
(Donna laughs)
It's amazing, all
the uses I've found
for my failed
experiments at ViLi.
The radio defibrillator
didn't quite pan out, but...
(sighs) Works beautifully
here, I'm afraid.
(Scout whimpers)
Are you ready now?
Good.
Let's go back to basics.
Where it all started.
I'm sure you'll recognize
this one from all those years
as a child wriggling
around in the pews.
(Donna chuckles)
(dramatic organ music)
I don't know this song.
I don't wanna hurt you again.
Please don't make me.
Ave
Maria
Well, give me more!
She needs to feel it!
Gratia plena!
(bracelets buzzing)
(Scout whines)
Well, that's not very pretty.
(Scout pants)
Let's try again.
(dramatic organ music)
Maria
Gratia
Plena
Maria
Gratia plena
It's beautiful.
She loves the
emotion. Keep going!
Ave Dominus
Dominus tecum
Dominus tecum
(Donna breathes deeply)
(studio whirs down)
Very, very good, Scout.
I think she has your voice now.
(Donna breathes deeply)
(crickets chirping) (dark music)
(dark thumping electronic tones)
What did you think of those
ultra-low frequencies?
I'm so glad you were
willing to listen there.
A little intense for
me, but... (chuckles)
The computer loves them.
Can I have some water?
Anything.
Oh.
I have something better!
Green tea.
Good for the vocal chords.
(Scout slurps)
Oh.
Careful, Scout. You
shouldn't be so eager.
Let it cool a moment.
Please.
I can't keep going like this.
Oh, I know.
It's been such a long day
and you've given us so much.
You must be exhausted.
I can't feel my arms.
I have a special song
I'd like to play for you.
(high-pitched ringing tones)
There you are, trying
so hard to be true
And still without
your mother, baby
There you are
Those are my lyrics. Loving
It looked like
you couldn't have quite
finished them before.
(Donna chuckles)
But my computer had no problem.
Holding the door for you
Turn it off.
Take a look, take
a look my way
Shh. I'm the girl in the bar
Holding the door
for you Turn it off!
Oh, don't be scared, Scout.
Listen to yourself. Enjoy it!
Fuck you.
It's an imitation.
A cover band.
It's a fucking wedding singer.
Thinking that you're
too outrageous
There you are, fearing
"Replication isn't creation."
(studio whirs down)
Isn't that what you told me?
I can help you, Donna,
but not like this.
I need space. I
need instruments.
I need something tangible!
Do you want a song? I'll
give you a real fucking song.
I'd be careful, if
I were you, Scout.
She's the only reason
you're still alive.
(ominous music)
(Scout spits)
(ominous music swells)
(mellow music)
(static crackling)
Feeling like
you're undercover
(Scout drowned out by
distorted blaring music)
(Scout drowned out by
distorted blaring music)
(distorted blaring
music continues)
(metronome clacking)
(tense music)
(tense music continues)
(metronome clatters)
(knocks on door)
(sinister electronic music)
(knocks on door)
(door creaks)
Can I help you?
"Hi, Griff. How's it goin'?"
I left some shit here.
I just wanna grab it.
It's my laptop and
some cables. That's it.
This isn't a good time.
Scout's in the middle of
a creative breakthrough.
Oh.
That's great.
[Donna] It is.
And she doesn't need
any distractions.
I just want my fuckin' laptop.
I'll send you your things, okay?
This is a business based
on relationships, Donna.
Did you forget that?
It used to be.
Griffin.
Not anymore.
(door slams)
(keys clinking)
Goddamn.
(Griff sighs)
(eerie music)
(eerie music continues)
(lock hums)
(lock hums)
(lock chirps)
(mellow electronic music)
Jesus Christ.
Hold on, Scout.
(object thuds)
(electronic strings strumming)
(Scout pants)
(Scout pants) (dark music)
(Scout pants) (dark
music continues)
Griff.
Griff, are you okay?
I hope you're happy now, Scout.
I brought you your
precious instruments.
Oh.
What a happy accident.
You even have your engineer.
(hands thumping)
(Scout pants)
Come on, Donna.
Let him go.
You don't need him.
Okay?
I'll stay.
I promise.
He's not gonna tell anyone.
I'm sorry, Scout.
But I think it's a
package deal now.
(hand thumping)
Now I have given you
exactly what you asked for,
and you promised me a real song.
So let's hear it.
And I wanna be impressed.
Griffin's life depends on it.
Falling from the light
Falling from the light
You saw
You couldn't
contain yourself
'Cause you were broken
Couldn't contain yourself
Keep going.
Don't stop.
Falling from the light
Falling from the light
You saw
You couldn't
contain yourself
'Cause you were broken
You couldn't
contain yourself
Back to the song, now!
(bracelets buzzing)
(tense music)
Stop! You're hurting him!
Then play!
Only time can save you now
Only time can save you now
(Donna chuckles)
- We're almost there.
- Only time can save you
Now
In a friend
I heard some howling
from the light
You saw
You couldn't
contain yourself
'Cause you were broken
You couldn't
contain yourself
(Scout whimpers)
Falling from the light
Why aren't you listening?
- Fuck you! Let him go!
- Falling from the light
You saw
Donna, please.
You couldn't
contain yourself
All you had to do was listen.
'Cause you were broken
You couldn't
contain yourself
(bracelets buzzing) (screaming)
(distorted and
garbled screaming)
Falling from the light
Yes.
- Falling from the light
- Yes. (Chuckles)
- You saw
- Yes!
You couldn't
contain yourself
Oh, can you hear this Scout?
You were broken
You fell
You couldn't contain
'Cause you were broken
Falling from the light
Falling from the light
You saw
You couldn't
contain yourself
'Cause you were broken
(distant sirens wailing)
(traffic humming)
(metronome clacking
rhythmically)
(ominous music swelling)
(moody electronic music)
You saw
You couldn't contain
'Cause you were broken
Falling from the light
Falling from the light
You saw
You couldn't
contain yourself
'Cause you were broken
(moody electronic
music continues)
'Cause you were broken
(moody electronic
music continues)
'Cause you were broken
(moody electronic
music continues)
(moody electronic
music continues)
(moody electronic
music continues)
(dark music)
(dark music continues)
(dark music continues)
(ominous eerie music)
(distant plane engines roaring)
(traffic hums and whooshes)
(patrons chattering)
(locks clacking)
(bag unzips)
(amplifier buzzes)
(cup clatters)
(cup clatters)
(cup clattering)
(uptempo percussive
music using cup sample)
I went to the ocean
And I couldn't find a bed
I went to the seaside
And I couldn't find the dead
I couldn't find the dead
I looked for a lady
But she didn't like to say
What she really wanted
I know something that a-way
I know it was
(cup clacking)
Jesus Christ.
That was a pretty neat trick.
Oh, uh...
Yeah. Thanks.
It's pretty simple stuff.
Well, give yourself
the credit you deserve.
That's a unique talent.
I'm Donna Alby.
Decibel?
Yeah.
Oh! Oh, um, the
Shin Splints, right?
They're recording at
my studio as we speak.
And you came to see my show?
Wait. (Chuckles)
That, that is so cool.
I, I'm sorry. I'm Scout.
How did you even find me?
Have you ever considered
how your sound might
improve in a new setting?
Oh, I mean, I don't know.
I usually make stuff
in my own space.
I'd like to invite you to
record at Decibel Studios.
We'll call it an experiment.
And if we're successful,
you can expect more than
60 bucks and a drink.
(Donna chuckles)
I guess I just think
of it as paying my dues.
You need to be working
at the next level, Scout.
And I have the tools
to make that happen.
(ominous music)
Think about it.
Don't let your
talent go to waste.
I have a good feeling
about this, Scout.
I'm glad we met.
(ominous music continues)
(phone bleeps)
[Bailey] Hey,
Scout. It's Bailey.
Listen, I don't wanna make
this awkward or whatever,
but the collective elected me
to ask you about resident dues
and there's a lot of
talk about raising rent,
and it ain't good.
Anyway, call me or come over.
We should, we should talk.
Okay.
(Scout breathes deeply)
(mid-tempo percussive music)
[Bailey] We should talk.
Whatever.
Talk.
Whatever.
Listen. Listen.
Whatever.
Listen. Listen.
Whatever.
We should talk.
Raising rent. Dues.
Raising rent.
Listen. Listen.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
Listen. Listen.
Raising Rent. Ain't good.
We should talk.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
Dues.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
We should talk.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
Dues.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
We should talk.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
Dues.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
We should talk. Listen, listen.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
Listen, listen.
Raising rent. Ain't good.
(mid-tempo percussive
music continues)
(metronome clacks rhythmically)
(heartbeat thumping)
(wind chimes ringing)
(fly buzzes)
(metronome clacking)
(wind chimes ringing)
(metronome clicks)
(watch chirps)
(Scout humming melodically)
(Scout humming melodically)
(Scout humming melodically)
(Scout humming melodically)
(Scout humming melodically)
(dark electronic music)
(Scout humming melodically)
(gentle music)
(car door clicks open)
(car door slams)
Welcome to Decibel.
(wind chimes ringing)
I'm so glad you decided to come.
Wow. (Chuckles)
It's gorgeous here.
(Donna chuckles)
Certainly remote.
(distant coyotes yelping)
Come on in.
I'll give you the tour.
(footsteps clacking)
(gentle music continues)
(door clicks open)
[Scout] How long
have you lived here?
Not long.
I needed some space,
after leaving ViLi.
Figured 150 acres would do.
(footsteps clacking)
Can't wait to get out there.
Record some desert sounds.
(Donna sighs)
I am so excited
that you're here.
You made the right choice,
accepting my invitation.
I can't wait to get to work.
Your room is right down there.
But first, there's some people
I think you'll wanna meet.
(cicadas chirping)
I'd like you to meet
a friend of mine.
This is Scout.
I loved your last record.
(Lee sighs)
I am sorry, Donna.
He's just mad we have to leave.
You're gonna join us for
dinner tonight, right?
Of course.
I'm just showing
her her room now.
I'll let you know
when dinner's ready.
This room is beautiful.
Oh, I like my artists
to be comfortable.
Thank you.
Oh, this is one of yours, right?
(suspenseful music)
Yes.
The ViLi Monitor.
Decibel was founded
on her success.
When was the last time you
had your breasts examined?
Excuse me? (Chuckles)
A mammogram.
It's important.
(monitor chimes)
(suspenseful music continues)
(monitor ringing)
(monitor bleeps)
All clear.
No wonder you're a billionaire.
So, then...
Why music?
It's about as far away from
healthcare as you can get.
They're more closely related
than you'd think. (Chuckles)
When I was at ViLi, we
were making real headway
into how sound impacts
physical health.
What'd you find?
The board of
directors let me go,
before I had much of a
chance to figure it out.
I know I did good work at ViLi,
touchless cancer
screenings, the ana patch,
my needleless anesthetic,
and new vaccines.
I gave everything
for my company.
But being pushed out
helped me find the essence of
what I always wanted to do.
Music.
A good song can be
a benison as well.
In a way, it saved my life.
I don't know if
music saved my life,
but I'd die to keep making it.
That's gorgeous, Scout.
That's the type of
dedication we need.
And we'll have a little
fun too, right? (Chuckles)
I'll come collect you
when it's time for dinner.
(brooding electronic music)
"Life without music
is meaningless."
(dirt crunches under footsteps)
(insects buzzing)
(wind whistling)
(insects buzzing)
(intense whooshing)
(animals chirping)
(Scout humming melodically)
(Scout humming melodically)
(distant muffled chattering)
[Jackie] I don't care.
[Donna] (indistinct)
Be professional.
(gentle acoustic guitar music)
(Scout chuckles)
(gentle acoustic guitar music)
Oh, come on.
Really?
Your first record, right?
I love this one.
Last night I dreamed
I was a radio
And you were coming through
me like my favorite song
Dreamed I was a radio.
And you were coming through
me like my favorite song
You were coming through
me like my favorite song
You were coming through
me like my favorite song
(heartbeat thumping)
(ominous music)
(fork clatters)
Lee, make yourself useful.
Thank you.
(cicadas chirping)
(chair creaks)
So, uh...
What's it been like,
working with Donna?
Mm.
She's a bit intense.
Like how?
Man, don't look so worried.
She's, uh, she's, she's cool.
Think of it like she's
a, like, a bit eccentric.
(dark swelling music)
Hey.
Stick 'em up.
Griff.
You're right on time.
Kimosabe.
[Griff] Just you people.
Griffin...
This is Scout.
- Griff.
- Scout.
We are so lucky
to have her here.
Her music will lead
us into the future.
To the future, huh?
No pressure.
Griffin will be your
engineer for the week.
Oh, I wasn't planning
on using an engineer.
I don't, usually.
Nice to meet you, too.
Yeah, when you see the studio
tomorrow, you'll understand.
Griff, settle an
argument for us.
Donna's been talking
about this all night.
Do you think there's, uh, such
a thing as a perfect sound?
Silence?
That wasn't the question.
The question was whether there's
a perfect frequency, right?
A...
An undiscovered waveform.
I want no part of
this conversation.
You know, songs
aren't just waveforms,
or whatever the fuck.
I don't think you get it.
You don't even play
an instrument, right?
No, you're right, Lee.
No, I don't play.
I haven't played since I
was a child. (Chuckles)
But I'm not pretending
to still be a rock star.
(Lee chuckles)
Excuse me.
(footsteps clacking)
(gentle music)
(door thuds)
Lee.
- Give me a break, Jack.
- She doesn't give a shit.
She's kicking us
out tomorrow anyway.
(lighter flicks)
Who needs a refill?
(dark music)
(distant singing)
(gentle acoustic guitar music)
And you were coming through
me like my favorite song
Dreamed I was a radio
And you were coming through
me like my favorite song
(garbled music)
Coming through me like
[Scout] Is she
always that tough?
She's got a lot to prove.
She's invested.
How long have you
worked for her?
On and off for a couple years.
It's all freelance,
but it pays well.
Donna's a lot of things,
but cheap ain't one of 'em.
Do you like her?
Yeah.
Sure.
She's kind of mean,
but, uh, she's the only
billionaire I've ever met.
Maybe that's just
how they all are.
I don't know what
I'm doing here.
It's a cool opportunity, right?
Early days for the studio, but
Donna's a successful person.
She'll win out here too,
I think. Eventually.
But like, The Shin
Splints. I mean...
Am I taking their studio time?
Tune that shit out.
They'll be all right.
Donna sees something in you.
Best case scenario,
you get a record deal.
Worst case scenario, you get
a few good songs out of it.
Yeah.
Hey.
Do you wanna see the studio?
(eerie music)
(dirt crunches under footsteps)
(lock chimes)
(door whooshes)
(door whooshes)
(door slams)
This is the fancy studio?
(Griff chuckles)
[Griff] Uh-huh.
Where's the gear?
I know it sounds crazy,
but the room is the gear.
Everything in here is connected.
You have a thousand individual
microphones, 2,000 speakers,
all in the walls, all
communicating with each other.
No need for any wires.
Don't need to plug
in any instruments.
I don't even see
any instruments.
It's so much more
than that, Scout.
Here.
Put these on.
They connect you to the studio.
Makes everything streamlined.
[Scout] Really?
(bracelet clicks)
Step in.
Sing anything.
Promise you're not
gonna be disappointed.
(door whirring)
Give me a vocal.
Literally anything.
Anything you like.
Okay.
Um...
Well, I have been working
on like one thing,
but it's not really ready yet.
[Griff] No pressure.
I'm an anarchist
Give me chaos, give me
fury and a late-night kiss
Yeah, something like
that. I don't know.
Okay. Take a listen.
I'm an anarchist
Give me chaos, give me
fury and a late-night kiss
Can I add to it?
Yeah. Anything you like.
Think of it this way.
Those bracelets connect you
to all the equipment in the
walls, those mics and speakers.
And that touchscreen functions
like any instrument
you can imagine.
It's a keyboard, horn,
sampler, drum machine.
You just swipe through it.
Donna programmed it herself.
(monitor chirps)
(kick drum thumping)
(mellow electronic music)
I'm an anarchist
Give me chaos, give me
fury and a late-night kiss
From a man I know who's
not the best for me
I'm a cynic when I'm in it
I'm a witness to my own
destructive thoughts
Overwritten, overwrought
I want the best for you
If it's the worst for me
I want the best for you
If it's the worst for me
Wait. That is so intuitive.
It sounds great.
I'm gonna loop it, okay?
I'm a nihilist
I'm sick of tryin' this
I'm getting high on this
It's a feeling that I
like, I won't come down, no
It's the worst for me
I want the best for you
If it's the worst
(ominous music)
(door thuds)
(Donna sighs)
I wanted to be
here when you met.
Yeah, I'm, I'm really
sorry. I should've asked.
I know this is your baby.
Um, I was just really excited.
And so when Griff said
that we could come to.
Do you like it?
The studio?
This is the coolest
thing I've ever seen.
Good.
Now, tell me.
What is your first
memory of music, Scout?
(gentle music)
Oh, um.
I don't know.
Sitting in the pew with
my grandparents, I guess.
Yeah.
They built this old organ in
the back of the sanctuary.
Sometimes the sermons
were pretty boring.
But I liked the hymns.
"Ave Maria".
"How Great Thou Art".
Every Sunday.
Well...
We are creatures of habit.
Aren't we?
What about you? First
memory of music?
My mother, she was
a piano teacher.
Did she teach you how to play?
She certainly tried.
(eerie music)
Can you do me a favor, scout?
Can you tell me what that is?
(organ chord drones)
This chord?
It's B-flat.
Is this a church organ?
You messing with me?
And this?
What is this? Like a test?
Don't think of it that way.
Please.
Humor me.
Um...
F-sharp, but this is
like grade school shit.
Oh! If it's so easy,
then what comes next?
In the scale?
No.
What chord should come next?
What is the best
decision, musically?
Use the monitor in front of you.
Um...
B-flat.
F-sharp.
D-sharp-minor.
F-major.
Eh.
Like this.
(brooding organ music)
Yeah.
Yeah, I...
Did I pass your test?
I told you it's not a
test, but if it was?
With flying colors.
(crickets chirping)
(water splashing)
(muffled organ music)
(muffled organ music)
(crickets chirping)
(muffled organ music)
(muffled organ music)
(feedback rings)
(discordant organ music)
(door slams)
(ominous music)
(distorted electronic
tones buzzing)
[Scout] What's it been
like, working with Donna?
(eerie percussive music)
Can't wait to get out there.
Record some desert sounds.
Record some desert sounds.
I'm an anarchist
(distorted and garbled vocals)
[Donna] Perfect frequency.
(distorted and garbled vocals)
(eerie music continues)
An undiscovered waveform.
(eerie music continues)
(coyote howls)
(door creaks)
You're up early.
Yeah! Yeah, you too.
Hey, have you seen Donna?
Not this morning.
I think she's avoiding us.
Did you have a session
with her yesterday?
I thought I heard someone
playing in the studio.
She wouldn't let us back
in that studio if we asked.
And look, I know last night
ended sort of weird or whatever,
but Lee had too much to drink.
You know how it goes.
He's in the car right
now, still hungover.
All good, all good.
I get it.
[Jackie] I just don't want
you to think that Donna's
worse than she is.
[Griff] Hey.
Didn't think we'd see
you again, Griffy.
Think I'd miss this
pathetic sendoff?
Was fun working with you, Jack.
Wish your boss felt the same.
Yeah.
Tough crowd.
But we made some good shit.
You guys made some good
shit. Be sure of that.
I'll send you mastered
versions in a few weeks.
Remember, you're
making your record. Okay?
Nobody else's.
Give 'em hell, Scout.
(door clicks open)
(door thuds)
Well, we have some
time before our session.
I have some hangover beers.
You wanna go for a walk?
Hell yeah.
(cicadas chirping)
So, you make your own music?
Nah. Just a lowly sound tech.
Oh, whatever.
Had a band for a while.
Got tired of eating ramen,
having six roommates.
Had to get a real job.
Trust me. I get it.
I never totally stopped
playing, though.
I have a little studio up
here, actually. Just for fun.
No shit.
Hey, I wanna see it.
We should be getting back.
Donna's pretty fuckin' punctual.
Do you have actual
instruments in your studio?
(door creaks)
(door thuds)
So, you're a hoarder.
These are all left
over from Studio 1.0.
(acoustic guitar strums)
Hm.
Can't imagine that studio
having instruments.
Yeah. It didn't last long.
She, uh, pulled 'em all out,
when she started
programming the new system.
(cymbal ringing)
(snare drum rattling)
(kick drum thumping)
We should really get going.
Sit your ass down and play.
(gentle acoustic guitar music)
I could love you
Oh, If you want me to
(Scout hums melodically)
I could love you
Oh, if you want me to
And you could love me too
Or I could hate you, oh
If you want me to
You could hate me too
Whatever you want or need
Whatever you wish I'll be
I'll be anything,
I'll be anything
Key chain on your
favorite keys
Shirt that you got
from Palm Springs
I'll be anything
(eerie music)
I'll be anything
Living across the road
I'll do anything I'm told
Maybe even
(distorted vocals)
I could love you, oh
If you want me to
And you could love me too
(cymbal ringing)
(button clicks)
You know, I don't normally
work with an engineer.
(Scout chuckles)
Fuck off.
[Griff] We should
really get back.
I don't wanna keep
Donna waiting.
Okay. Fine.
(cymbal crashes)
(birds chirping)
(distant coyote howls)
Uh, gotta be at least 50 years.
I actually got it from
this shop down the street.
It needs some love,
but does the trick.
How nice of you to show.
You're 15 minutes late.
So that was my fault. I,
uh, I was asking for a tour.
The time for tours
was yesterday.
Well, we're here now.
It was kind of like, um,
like an inspiration thing,
to start my day?
Like getting me a
little, little warmed up.
When you're a
guest in my studio,
I decide how you warm up.
Is that fair?
Yeah.
No, absolutely.
Good.
You two get to work.
Who knows what exciting
discoveries we'll make today.
(mellow electronic music)
I see your face
I feel the same
I see your shade
It's all the same
Who are you tonight
Who are you tonight
Who are you tonight
(Scout groans)
Fuck!
Can't figure out
this goddamn chorus.
(studio whirs down)
You'll figure it out.
Come on back. Let's
take a little break.
We can listen in here.
(dark music)
(Donna breathes deeply)
So that's it right there.
It's just not melding.
[Scout] I know. I can hear it.
I don't need a
fuckin' PowerPoint.
Just trying to help.
(sighs) This is why
I work alone, you know?
I can spend a whole week
on a sound, if I want to.
It, this is just,
it's too stressful,
trying to get a whole
fucking song in a day.
And with you watching me.
[Griff] It's all right.
You'll get there.
[Scout] Sorry.
[Griff] Do you wanna call it?
[Scout] Oh, yeah. I'm starving.
Totally cool.
(Donna sighs)
We'll finish your
track tomorrow.
I won't be late.
Goodnight, Scout. Sleep well.
(light buzzing)
(ominous music)
Hey.
Are you taking a break?
We're calling it for
the day, actually.
It's a little early,
don't you think?
We've been at it for 12 hours.
She's tired. I'm tired.
We almost finished
an entire song.
No, it's not only
about the song!
(ominous music continues)
You should know that by now. I.
I need you to get
more output from her.
12 hours is more than
enough output, Donna.
You can't force this shit.
I think you need to
take some time off.
[Griff] Oh, come on.
You said it yourself.
You're tired.
I'll finish with her.
- How?
- Pack your things, Griffin!
Clear the studio!
You know what?
Good luck.
Good fuckin' luck.
You can't do this on your own.
I won't have to.
(footsteps clacking)
(door creaks)
(door slams)
(thunder claps)
(garbled and
distorted organ music)
(muffled crickets chirping)
(muffled thunder rumbling)
I could love you, oh
If you want me to
And you could love me too
Or I could hate you, oh
If you want me to
And you could hate me too
(eerie music)
(distant coyote yelping)
Who are you tonight
Who are you
Who are you
You, you, you, you, you
(distorted vocals)
(mellow electronic music)
I could love you
Dreamed I was a radio
Who are you tonight
(eerie music swelling)
(distant coyote howls)
(insects buzzing)
(distant coyote howls)
(insects buzzing and chirping)
(grass rustles)
(distant coyote howls)
(coyote barks)
Fuck.
(distant coyotes howling)
(coyotes howling)
(coyote howls)
(coyote howls)
(suspenseful music)
(coyotes howling)
(coyotes howling)
(suspenseful music continues)
(coyote howls)
(coyotes howling)
(intense electronic music)
(intense electronic
music swells)
(metronome clacks rhythmically)
(door thuds)
Oh.
I'm sorry. I didn't
know you were.
Good morning.
(metronome clacks rhythmically)
Putting the microphone
to good use, I see.
Oh, yeah.
Why is it scratched?
Oh, I accidentally
dropped it a couple times.
If I had known you were
gonna be so careless,
I would've gotten you
a less expensive one.
Uh...
Sorry?
Most of my stuff is
kinda scraped up.
I use it.
You know?
There's breakfast set
out, just over there.
Please eat!
You'll need your energy.
That's great. Thanks.
You know, I accidentally
dropped the mic yesterday
when I was trying
to record a coyote.
Do you mind if I
put something on
from your session yesterday?
I'd love for you
to hear it. It's...
It's gorgeous.
Yeah.
Sure.
(watch chirps)
(food crunching)
(heartbeat thumping)
(substances squelching
and bubbling)
(heartbeat thumping)
What is that?
It's you, Scout.
I'm sorry.
What?
Well, our studio measures
your bio rhythms, your,
your breath, your heartbeat.
Even your blood flow.
Music comes from within.
Wouldn't you agree?
(heartbeat thumping)
That's...
(substances squelching
and bubbling)
That's really weird.
Will you turn that off?
(watch chirps)
(speakers whirring down)
Breakthroughs come from
total self alignment.
You have to listen closely to
yourself. That's how we learn.
Um...
Okay.
Thank you.
This was a great breakfast,
but I should probably
head to the studio.
I promised Griff that
I wouldn't be late.
It's just you and
me today, Scout.
Where's Griff?
[Donna] I don't need
anyone distracting you.
No, he wasn't distracting me!
Well, try something
different today.
Different how?
I understand this might
feel a bit unconventional.
The future always is.
(Scout scoffs)
I believe your time is valuable.
I'm willing to prove it.
Uh, 15,000 for a session?
Do I need a lawyer
or something for this?
It's this simple. I
I'm offering my studio
for you to record in,
and I'm paying
you for your time.
Think of it as a way for us
to explore our relationship.
If we get to the point
where we need contracts,
we'll get you representation.
Okay, that's really
generous, Donna.
Who do I make the check out to?
Scout clearly isn't
your given name.
(tense music)
Let's start with a warmup.
What kind of warmup?
Let's do some scales.
[Scout] You're kidding, right?
Not at all.
It's important to
build from basics.
Are you embarrassed?
Do, re, me, fa,
so, la, te, do
Okay, once more.
But harmonize this time.
Give me a fourth.
Do, re, me, fa
Fa
Do, re, me, fa,
so, la, te, do
Okay, now, this time
I don't know how long
I'm gonna be here,
and I'd like to make
as many songs as I can.
So, do you think we could
get back to my song soon?
Let's do one more.
For good measure.
F again, please.
Do, re, me, fa,
so, la, te, do
Bravo.
Awesome.
So, I wanted to
revisit the harmonies
from the track that
we did yesterday,
and then move on to the bridge.
Oh, if that's where
you'd like to begin,
then that's where we'll begin.
(moody electronic music)
Who are you tonight
Who are you tonight
(studio whirs down)
Very good. Moving on.
What?
I wanted to add some more layers
and then I was gonna go to.
We've got what we need.
Replication is not creation.
Look, Donna, I know that
you're paying me for my time
and I appreciate that,
really, but I know
what my songs need.
Oh, I keep forgetting
you've never worked
with a producer before.
(Donna chuckles)
That's not what
I'm talking about.
Promise it's for your own good.
We've spent too much time
on this song already.
You don't know that.
Actually, I do.
Now let's move on.
I actually have a, a
little treat for you.
I wonder if you'd like to find
the vocal melody for this.
(mellow electronic music)
What is that?
Something that we've
been working on.
[Scout] You made this?
Inspired by you, of course.
- This isn't my song.
- Please.
Find the melody.
(Scout hums melodically)
Louder.
(Scout hums melodically)
Good!
Now let's find the lyrics.
Well, don't stop.
Um
I'd like to get
back to my music.
[Donna] This is
your music, Scout.
I, I want my track back up.
Your bio rhythms
are giving you away.
I can see from my monitor here
that you're frustrated with me.
No shit.
What's upsetting you so much?
Respectfully,
Donna, this just...
This isn't what I came here for.
(door rattles)
Unlock the door. (Eerie music)
I know you found
one of my speakers
in the desert this morning.
Why didn't you say anything?
(coyotes howling)
(eerie music continues)
Funny, Donna. Let me out, now!
My mother
used to lock me
in our music room,
the week before every recital.
And you know what?
It worked every time.
Donna, let me out! Now!
(Scout pants)
(door whooshes)
(door creaks)
(Scout pants)
(dark music)
You're onto it now.
(studio crackling)
(Scout pants)
(Scout humming melodically)
[Scout] So, you
make your own music?
(coyote howls)
I don't know what
I'm doing here.
This is the coolest
thing I've ever seen.
Who are, who are,
who are, who are you
(cacophonous reverberating
speech and singing)
Stop it!
(Scout pants)
(Scout pants)
(birds chirping)
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
Stop it! Stop it!
(tense electronic music)
(ominous tones)
It's just me.
I want to talk.
There's so much for
us to do, Scout.
Get outta my way!
You remember my
ana patch, right?
My needleless anesthetic?
It's perfectly safe.
I'll keep calm,
but you should too.
It's better that way.
(objects clattering)
(Donna sighs)
Just breathe.
Ten.
Nine.
Eight.
Seven.
Six.
Five.
(ominous music)
Four.
Three.
Two.
One.
(dark piano music)
(psychedelic electronic music)
(metal scraping)
Donna.
Donna!
What do you want?
I'll do whatever you want.
Just please let me go.
Please.
We have work to do first.
Why are you doing this?
Something revolutionary
is happening here, Scout.
You are so special.
I'm trying to help you see it!
I went to the
Please just let me go.
Here's the problem. (Chuckles)
Recently, my computer
stopped advancing.
(studio buzzing)
She stopped learning,
even though I was feeding her
all kinds of music, but...
You.
Oh, she loves you.
Radio
You can have my music.
You can keep it.
Anything you want.
No, it is so much
bigger than your music!
Imagine a world where all
music is, is tailor made,
auto-generated from a
listener's bio rhythms.
Everyone will have their
own custom compositions,
based on their, their
preferences, their,
their mood, their, their
most personal feelings,
and on demand, anywhere,
never to be replicated!
That is where we are headed!
(Donna breathes deeply)
I needed to be first. (Chuckles)
I don't want to.
I don't want to.
It's non-negotiable, I'm afraid.
So...
(Scout pants)
Are you ready to play with us?
Please help me.
Help me, please, somebody!
(bracelets buzzing)
(sinister electronic music)
(Donna laughs)
It's amazing, all
the uses I've found
for my failed
experiments at ViLi.
The radio defibrillator
didn't quite pan out, but...
(sighs) Works beautifully
here, I'm afraid.
(Scout whimpers)
Are you ready now?
Good.
Let's go back to basics.
Where it all started.
I'm sure you'll recognize
this one from all those years
as a child wriggling
around in the pews.
(Donna chuckles)
(dramatic organ music)
I don't know this song.
I don't wanna hurt you again.
Please don't make me.
Ave
Maria
Well, give me more!
She needs to feel it!
Gratia plena!
(bracelets buzzing)
(Scout whines)
Well, that's not very pretty.
(Scout pants)
Let's try again.
(dramatic organ music)
Maria
Gratia
Plena
Maria
Gratia plena
It's beautiful.
She loves the
emotion. Keep going!
Ave Dominus
Dominus tecum
Dominus tecum
(Donna breathes deeply)
(studio whirs down)
Very, very good, Scout.
I think she has your voice now.
(Donna breathes deeply)
(crickets chirping) (dark music)
(dark thumping electronic tones)
What did you think of those
ultra-low frequencies?
I'm so glad you were
willing to listen there.
A little intense for
me, but... (chuckles)
The computer loves them.
Can I have some water?
Anything.
Oh.
I have something better!
Green tea.
Good for the vocal chords.
(Scout slurps)
Oh.
Careful, Scout. You
shouldn't be so eager.
Let it cool a moment.
Please.
I can't keep going like this.
Oh, I know.
It's been such a long day
and you've given us so much.
You must be exhausted.
I can't feel my arms.
I have a special song
I'd like to play for you.
(high-pitched ringing tones)
There you are, trying
so hard to be true
And still without
your mother, baby
There you are
Those are my lyrics. Loving
It looked like
you couldn't have quite
finished them before.
(Donna chuckles)
But my computer had no problem.
Holding the door for you
Turn it off.
Take a look, take
a look my way
Shh. I'm the girl in the bar
Holding the door
for you Turn it off!
Oh, don't be scared, Scout.
Listen to yourself. Enjoy it!
Fuck you.
It's an imitation.
A cover band.
It's a fucking wedding singer.
Thinking that you're
too outrageous
There you are, fearing
"Replication isn't creation."
(studio whirs down)
Isn't that what you told me?
I can help you, Donna,
but not like this.
I need space. I
need instruments.
I need something tangible!
Do you want a song? I'll
give you a real fucking song.
I'd be careful, if
I were you, Scout.
She's the only reason
you're still alive.
(ominous music)
(Scout spits)
(ominous music swells)
(mellow music)
(static crackling)
Feeling like
you're undercover
(Scout drowned out by
distorted blaring music)
(Scout drowned out by
distorted blaring music)
(distorted blaring
music continues)
(metronome clacking)
(tense music)
(tense music continues)
(metronome clatters)
(knocks on door)
(sinister electronic music)
(knocks on door)
(door creaks)
Can I help you?
"Hi, Griff. How's it goin'?"
I left some shit here.
I just wanna grab it.
It's my laptop and
some cables. That's it.
This isn't a good time.
Scout's in the middle of
a creative breakthrough.
Oh.
That's great.
[Donna] It is.
And she doesn't need
any distractions.
I just want my fuckin' laptop.
I'll send you your things, okay?
This is a business based
on relationships, Donna.
Did you forget that?
It used to be.
Griffin.
Not anymore.
(door slams)
(keys clinking)
Goddamn.
(Griff sighs)
(eerie music)
(eerie music continues)
(lock hums)
(lock hums)
(lock chirps)
(mellow electronic music)
Jesus Christ.
Hold on, Scout.
(object thuds)
(electronic strings strumming)
(Scout pants)
(Scout pants) (dark music)
(Scout pants) (dark
music continues)
Griff.
Griff, are you okay?
I hope you're happy now, Scout.
I brought you your
precious instruments.
Oh.
What a happy accident.
You even have your engineer.
(hands thumping)
(Scout pants)
Come on, Donna.
Let him go.
You don't need him.
Okay?
I'll stay.
I promise.
He's not gonna tell anyone.
I'm sorry, Scout.
But I think it's a
package deal now.
(hand thumping)
Now I have given you
exactly what you asked for,
and you promised me a real song.
So let's hear it.
And I wanna be impressed.
Griffin's life depends on it.
Falling from the light
Falling from the light
You saw
You couldn't
contain yourself
'Cause you were broken
Couldn't contain yourself
Keep going.
Don't stop.
Falling from the light
Falling from the light
You saw
You couldn't
contain yourself
'Cause you were broken
You couldn't
contain yourself
Back to the song, now!
(bracelets buzzing)
(tense music)
Stop! You're hurting him!
Then play!
Only time can save you now
Only time can save you now
(Donna chuckles)
- We're almost there.
- Only time can save you
Now
In a friend
I heard some howling
from the light
You saw
You couldn't
contain yourself
'Cause you were broken
You couldn't
contain yourself
(Scout whimpers)
Falling from the light
Why aren't you listening?
- Fuck you! Let him go!
- Falling from the light
You saw
Donna, please.
You couldn't
contain yourself
All you had to do was listen.
'Cause you were broken
You couldn't
contain yourself
(bracelets buzzing) (screaming)
(distorted and
garbled screaming)
Falling from the light
Yes.
- Falling from the light
- Yes. (Chuckles)
- You saw
- Yes!
You couldn't
contain yourself
Oh, can you hear this Scout?
You were broken
You fell
You couldn't contain
'Cause you were broken
Falling from the light
Falling from the light
You saw
You couldn't
contain yourself
'Cause you were broken
(distant sirens wailing)
(traffic humming)
(metronome clacking
rhythmically)
(ominous music swelling)
(moody electronic music)
You saw
You couldn't contain
'Cause you were broken
Falling from the light
Falling from the light
You saw
You couldn't
contain yourself
'Cause you were broken
(moody electronic
music continues)
'Cause you were broken
(moody electronic
music continues)
'Cause you were broken
(moody electronic
music continues)
(moody electronic
music continues)
(moody electronic
music continues)
(dark music)
(dark music continues)
(dark music continues)