Hollywood Festival Revisited 1970 – 2003

Bank Holiday Monday 26^th May 2003  

After a quick dinner with Kevin & Tracy we arrived at the venue 'round 7:15. A lot of words are spoken about "The Rigger" (A hardrock / biker pub) in first place we we're disappointed about this venue, dark, small stage and a the big pole in front of the stage made it difficult to see the full band on stage, but let's not forget the Gig was brilliant, end of the evening we're all satisfied and after all the venue was not that bad as we thought in first place. The venue had to be empty between 6 and 8 to let Mungo Jerry built up the stage and to do the sound check, but it was packed full with visiters and the owner of the place was not very helpfull to clear up the room, but the boys had made there job and so they did. 'till Mungo Jerry started the gig we had to wait 'till 9:30, the music was loud and not realy the kind of music we're interested in so we're going out side to wait as long it need. Ray arrived 'round 9:00 and after a outside meeting with the other bandmembers and Derek they get into the venue and started the gig at 9:30. A little worried what's gonna happened with the hardrock-bikers in the back of the venue. Half way up the gig most bikers we're gone and the dancefloor was packed full with Mungo fans, dancin' singin' and clappin' with great enthusiasm. It was a long time ago I saw Nienke dancin' (lol) Alan and Micheal we're also on the dancefloor, well done boys !! Ray looked amused with all the fans in a good mood so the band was in very good shape too. The only thing left to say: Thanks to Ray and the band for such a brilliant evening, an evening we not easy forget. and of course thanks to Jarvis for the brilliant sound.

After the gig Ray did a autograph session for the fans, and he signed the sleeve of my cd "Impala Saga" the full band signed the leaflet "Newcastle Carnival" thanks boys. Just after 12:00 the owner of the Rigger invited Ray and all the fans who's left for a drink. We left to our hotel 'round 12:45. Looking back to a wonderful day with Mungo Jerry and all the fans, I hope to see you all once again.