V Festival has added Reel Big Fish, The Bees, Gus Gus, I Am Kloot and Mint Royale to the 2003 line up.

Reel Big Fish released their first album "Turn the Radio Off" in 1997. Next followed "Why Do They Rock So Hard?", and most recently "Cheer Up." which featured an a capella version of Frank Sinatra's "New York, New York."

The Bees created huge hype last year with "Sunshine Hit Me." One of the great successes of the little recognised Isle of Wight music scene, they have remained true to drums and guitar based writing, with only a small venture into the world of samplers and synths.

Mint Royale's claims to fame are varied and many. They have had three top 30 hits and albums featuring guest vocals from Prince Buster, Jez Williams (Doves) and Pos (De La Soul). They have also provided music for Get Carter (the one with Sly Stallone).

I Am Kloot are due to release their second album in September. Formed nearly four years ago, they are best known for their dark, pop melodies.

Gus Gus are a widely acclaimed group of performers and musicians. They released "Attention", their first album project in 2 years, in late 2002. The Icelandic four piece have been highly praised and received many prizes for their work in the past which includes their music, film-making and design.

Bob Angus, Festival Director, said: "The ticket sales have gone phenomenally well. We are now down to our very last day tickets for each site and are expecting a sold out festival in the next two weeks."

Published Tuessday June 3, 2003