The Psychøtic Reactiøn

Orange’s Bar, Canterbury, 16th October 2001:

This is a regular monthly night called Fretnoise, billed as “a showcase for the best local songwriters”, but they allowed Alex to play there as well (only joking!). It took place at Orange’s Bar, which used to be the Cricketer’s, in St. Peter’s Street, about 200 yards up from the Westgate, opposite Richard’s Records. It was notable for being the first Reaction gig to attract press coverage. Unfortunately, Al had just had flu, but this didn’t affect his performance too much.

Local journalist Jenni Potter wrote the following:

Solo artist Alex Williams kept the audience entertained with competent guitar playing and immediate unrefined vocals…

Well, it’s a start.

The Smack, Whitstable, 10th October 2001:

My first solo acoustic gig in Whitstable since Mr. Short made me play in front of the class in 1987. This went really well. Just three songs, but I got a really good reaction. It’s slightly better than Simple’s in that you get a free pint for original material and you get a proper stage (albeit a tiny one). Thanks to Mandy for organising the event (which is every Wednesday and has been going at least a year or so, I think) and for her encouragement. I shall return. That night Jon and Lucy (well, Lucy to be precise) gave birth to a baby girl who they have named Amber. Clearly good omens all around. Congratulations!