Vince Scheuerman has been making music in D.C. for years. In 2001, he started Cactus Patch, which later became Army of Me, which got signed to a major label, got dropped from a major label, and more recently broke up. Now he’s reinventing his sound with River James. They’re a more organic, rootsy new band—-less concerned with over-the-top pop hooks and more interested in earthy sincerity. Vince hooked up with the drummer of Mae and some mutual friends and decided to really go for it one more time. They recently released a new single, which you can hear below.

Dan Scheuerman has also been making music in D.C. for years. Since 2005, his hard-working, indie-rocking Deleted Scenes have been touring and recording quality, heartfelt tunes. Though the band’s members have straddled both New York and the District, they’ve clearly been a presence here in town for some time. Even if you missed their shows, you’ve likely seen their name on one of your favorite venue’s schedules at some point or another. As the band has matured, their songs have only gotten more interesting and Dan’s vocals have only gotten more impressive.

This Thursday, for the first time, the Scheuerman brothers are sharing a bill. While the birth of a new local band is always fascinating, Deleted Scenes reliably offer a kick-ass rock show as well. You can catch both at the Black Cat on Dec. 16.

LISTEN: River James – Fragile
[audio:http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/files/2010/12/01-Fragile.mp3|titles=01 Fragile]