"The discovery of the young, talented guitarist who joined '90s grunge band 'Return to Dust' was made by his mother, boldly introducing him to the band and announcing his aspirations."
Sebastian Gonzalez, a 15-year-old guitar prodigy from Inglewood, Los Angeles, joined Return to Dust, a rising alternative metal band, as a result of his exceptional skills. Gonzalez initially hesitated to introduce himself, believing the band was too busy. However, fate intervened, and he eventually auditioned for the lead guitarist slot in the band he had heard practicing1.
Gonzalez played a far more significant role in the creation of Return to Dust's new EP, "Speak Like the Dead." He recorded rhythm guitar parts alongside Matty Bielawski, the band's guitarist, and played lead guitar on every song1. This collaboration brought a fresh perspective to the band's sound, blending dark, despairing songs influenced by classic rock and grunge bands with Gonzalez's unique guitar tone and pedalboard effects3.
The EP, a fresh take on '90s grunge, showcases the band's commitment to authentic, intense grunge rock with modern freshness. In live shows, Return to Dust aim to deliver an enhanced experience, with extended bridges and outros that add to the raw energy beyond streaming versions4.
Return to Dust consists of two twenty-something musicians, Matty Bielawski and Graham Stanush, who bring ideas to the rehearsal room as a full band to jam and develop songs14. The band's sound incorporates influences from Alice In Chains, Jane's Addiction, Cage the Elephant, and Oasis4.
Bielawski, the band's guitarist, discovered the sonic magic of drop-D tuning and began playing in the vein of his favourite grunge bands. He loves the sound of humbucker pickups and the weight of the SG, finding it ideal for a crunchy tone that punches through the mix1. Gonzalez uses a Dusty Warren PRS and Mesa/Boogie Triple Crown head for his guitar tone3.
Return to Dust have experienced rapid success in Los Angeles, despite the pandemic stymying their plans to break into the club scene4. The band is currently on a fall tour, opening for Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace, followed by dates with Mammoth and Myles Kennedy1. With Gonzalez's addition to the band, the future of Return to Dust looks promising, as they continue to push the boundaries of alternative metal music.
Read also:
- Today's most impactful photographic moments
- Support for Eric Adams in The Post's Letters to the Editor on August 13, 2025
- Roosting Shark and Rambunctious Red Squirrels: Unconventional House Rental in Yorkshire Involving Aquatic Marvel, Squirrely Mayhem, and Mystical Planning Regulations
- Devastated Loved Ones Recall Oasis Fan Following Fatal Mishap at Wembley Show
