The Hollies - Concert Review

Southampton Mayflower, 7^th February 2004 - by Mike O'Shaughnessy

Hi all, i've been a fan of the hollies since the mid sixties, since I was a 9 year old kid and I'm now 47. Back in the early days I was far too young to have seen The Hollies in concert, so you can imagine my excitement on seeing that the lads were doing a 2004 tour which was in Southampton quite close to us.

I booked the tickets for the gig, not knowing how many of the original band were still with the group. I needn't have worried as the 'new' additions to the group do a superb job, and I'm glad to say they sound as good as they ever did.

Kerry, my fiance is five years younger than myself and although knowing most of their hit singles, she didn't consider herself to be a big Hollies fan.

I was really pleased to see Tony Hicks still with the group as he was one of my favourites, and I feel that his guitar playing brings that special 'Hollies sound' to their music. Another BIG suprise for me was that Ray Stiles was in the band. I originally come from Mitcham in South London, and used to live two doors down from Ray Stiles's mum.

Onto the show then, the group performed all of their hits, with Carl Wayne doing a great job on vocals.

Tony, Alan and Ray did three songs on their own which really went down well with the audience.

The screen projector added some great effects to the songs. 'Look through any window' is one of my favourite tracks and this was done in a different style which, although had a different feel, was really good.

The lads looked like they were having a great time and this reflected in their performance.

I was suprised to see both young and old at the concert, which was nice to see. All in all, it is a MUST SEE SHOW, and The Hollies are still, in my opinion one of the best ever groups to have come from these shores. Their music still sounds as good as ever.

Kerry, is now as big a fan of theirs as I am.

I won't go on too much about it, but if you are a fan of theirs, you can't miss this. The Hollies are still alive and kicking, great job lads, and long may you reign.

Thanks for an unforgettable night. Can't wait for the next one !

Regards to you all, Mike and Kerry

Setlist

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