Tedd's Recollections: George Olliver and The Mandala
By: Tedd Craven
Date: September 6, 2005
Well I had no idea who the Mandala where but we had been going to Hullabaloo as often as possible. The strip was great back then. We saw the Temptations, The Miracles, 4 Tops, Curtis Mayfield and the Impressions and all a few feet away from you - at the Whisky.
We went to Hullabaloo and the Mandala started playing and I was mesmerized....during one of the songs - George took a girl from the audience and kissed her onstage as the band wailed. This was way before anyone had done anything like that. What a showman - he is. Years later, I wondered if it was a set up....but it didn't matter if it was or wasn't - it was a first and it was done real well.
As I said, I am a musician and have been a front man (guitar and drums also) for too many years to count. So I have seen my share of shows. To remember a relatively unknown band - back then - all these years - you know it had to be great. I still play Give and Take once in a while when I am in the studio. I remember the words and chords - but how we got them - I can't remember. We must have gotten a hold of the single....but knowing me I would have coveted it and still had it. So That will remain a mystery - no one to ask as the band was all from Santa Monica and I was from NY and I eventually moved back to the East coast and lost touch.
Great great memories. I had been searching Amazon for the Mandala recordings hoping I would find some - no luck. I would love to have some their stuff. I almost remember an album but not sure if I am dreaming. If they have a spot to pick up some of the original songs, let me know. What a gas......Please tell George, he has a great fan in NY. Best to all.