The Iguana were a Melbourne group that formed from the Sands of Time and the Contours in 1967. Members were Gary Sweetman on vocals, Mike McGuire guitar and vocals, Cleve Littlewood guitar, Garry Littlewood guitar, Graham Jones bass and Peter Saunders on drums, later replaced by Russell McGregor.
They had four singles, plus an EP that combined two of their 45s.
I’ve always loved their first single, “Imagine This”. Produced by Pat Aulton on Festival’s four track, it still sounds fantastic! The combination of vocal harmonies with a strong rhythmic backing reminds me of later work by the English group the Action, especially their single “Never Ever” / “Twenty-Fourth Hour”.
Very few have heard the b-side “Dreaming Away to Myself” which is also very good, if not as arresting as “Imagine This”. Garry and Cleve Littlewood wrote both songs, causing some radio station to mark my copy “Aust comp” – I wonder if that helped get them some airplay.
Given the high quality of their first single I think Festival should have encouraged more original songs by the Littlewood brothers. Despite the later reliance on cover songs, I dig their second single, a great version of “California My Way” which I prefer to the original recording by the Committee. I am less enthusiastic with their heavy take on “Ticket to Ride”, the A-side of their third 45.
I still haven’t heard the B-sides to these, “Mary Go Round” and “Sunshine People”, respectively, or their fourth single, “Good News” / “Requiem: 820 Latham”.
The band seems to have broken up around 1969.
Gary Sweetman, Graham Jones, Gary and Cleve Littlewood, Pete Suanders and Russel Mcgregor stull alive and kicking
What about a little reunion (just a couple of one off shows,) it could be fun.
Cheers
I used to work with you guys at Lucas about a hundred years ago.
Our First gig was at a Joseph Lucas christmas ball with the Pink Finks (Ross Wilson), when they were having a hit with Louie Louie.
Hi Gary, I doubt you would remember me but we met you guys when you played Adam and Eves in Brisbane. You and Big Garry came to our flat for a party with The Sect (Brisbane band) my name is Margaret and my friends name is Eleanor. We caught up only a few weeks ago after 50 years and we had a good time reminiscing about those days in the late 60’s! I hope all is well!
Great story Maggie…I just loved this band ..great harmonies …🤙
I remember back in the old days at Lucas when we were Toolmakers.
Gary Sweetman joined the “Flying Pickets” for tour of Scandinavia in 19 86.
They were fabulous.
I worked with Cleve at the PMG(Telstra) 50 years ago when we started our apprenticeshiip as electrians, how time flys
I was at Mckinnon high when Graham was there.
Mary Go Round is a top song too. Cool guitar in it.
Iguana played at our school social (Elwood High) in ‘69 or ‘70, not quite sure which year. They were good, very professional sound for the day. Great harmonies of course.
I still have my single of ‘Good News’
I loved this band. My other favourite recording was ‘California My Way’. Great memories
Worked with Cleve for 3 years. Top bloke. Great story teller.