they do everything from scratch, hippopotimus performs the music from scratch on a keyboard,which usually has a live sound simply because the flaming hippies like to try to just record things in one take,if theres a mistake,they usually just keep it in the song. and of course hippie longstocking writes the lyrics to all of the songs,although hippopotimus has been known to write a song here and there,just as hippie longstocking has been known to place his hands on the keyboard here and there. and they both sing. they have made a vow to never use "real" instruments in their songs, such as guitars or drums,however hippie can in fact play guitar and hippopotimus is a drummer. and the use of programs such as fruity loops are never used either,they describe their sound as "cheap" and they like it that way,will the flaming hippies one day cross over to a more professional sound, maybe.... but dont hold your breath. also sometimes hippie longstockings brother, hip2besquare makes his way onto a track from time to time. the flaming hippies have also made it clear that they make music simply because they like to do it. not for money,not for fame, theyve made 12 albums in the 14 years theyve been recording, and never made a dime..... you cannot buy their albums,they do not perform live,and they have no merchandise. they just want people to listen to their music and hopefully get some laughs. who knows maybe someday they will release a cd,maybe one day they will perform live,maybe if an opportunity came along for them to make some money,maybe they'll take it,but once again,dont hold your breath. you can find all of their albums, and all of their songs on youtube. so if you feel like laughing, or if youre bored and just want to listen to something new,check them out. and please leave a comment, tell us if you like it, and why....or tell us if you hate it....and why. they'll just be happy that you took the time to listen to their stuff. but regardless, they will be making music til the day they die. but please....keep in mind. theyre not being serious, theyre just having a good time is all. hippie longstocking is more into heavy metal,grunge,alternative rock, and punk.....while hippopotimus is into rap 80's pop and old school artists such as al green..... some believe this is how the flaming hippies developed their unique sound. the two worlds colliding along with the same sense of humor seem to bring out this funny,dumb,but creative by mistake type of sound. and lyrically the stories behind the songs seem to be more interesting than the actual songs themselves. because hippie longstockings lyrics have been known to be quite confusing sometimes to listeners..... however most of the time he intentionally makes songs that doesnt make any sense. but hey....if theres ever any questions about the lyrics...all you have to do is ask.