Where Are They Now? - Little Dreamers Revisited #2

Here we are with the second instalment of acts that rocked hard in Sonic Masala's past, and are here to show 2012 what for.


Ancient River really put the 70s back into their psych rock, and the Florida band are back to show their frenetic work ethic shows no signs of keeping them at bay. Let It Live is their fourth release in a month, as they alternate between studio time and home recordings, and the constant jamming is paying serious dividends. Let It Live fucking rocks hard. I liked Ancient River, but based on this, there is no reason why the likes of the Black Angels should sit on top of the heap forever. Im very impressed...

Ancient River - What Goes Round
Ancient River - As The World Burns


I blogged about New Zealand band Two Cartoons' single 'Better Coast' some time ago, then promptly forgot about them (that isn't a diss, it's hard to keep track when so many bands throw things your way). Then a few days ago the band showed off their baby - debut EP Jelly Tip Lips. It contains re-recorded versions of 'Better Coast' and 'Scientific Life' plus three new songs, one of which is below. Its a fun slice of guitar pop with some great guitar and chiming harmonies, unrelenting sugar rush! You can grab it here.

Two Cartoons - Broken Bones


Fresno, California band The Quiet Americans are basically Luke Giffen and drummer Eli Reyes. The aim - to combine classic songwriting with insane fuzz and Neanderthal thump. The Quiet Americans combine bright melodies and animal like drums with fuzzed out guitar squall. Their Medicine EP was pretty tasty, I reckon you'd agree. Now the duo have recently expanded their live lineup to include Simon Smeds on bass, and Steve Loveless on organ, and have played some cool shows including opening slots for A Place to Bury Strangers, The Fresh and Onlys, Royal Baths, and Light Pollution. Im expecting more from these guys as they ramp it up in 2012.

The Quiet Americans - Selia


And finally we have Fay Wrays. This is linked once more to The Quiet Americans as drummer Eli Reyes resides in both. Their first new track for a whil has been unearthed. 'Cars' offers that indie guitar shtick that was rife in the 90s, yet infused with Mogwai-level distortion spikes, creating an awkwardly raucous take on the college radio smash hit. It becomes a mutant beast, exactly what the band was hoping for. Big fan of this turn of events, hope more heavy mutations are on their way guys! Tied fave track of the week (alongside yesterday's Inca Gold track...)

Fay Wrays - Cars