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What Three Words: Otway and Barrett
Genre : Music - General
WHAT THREE WORDS: OTWAY AND BARRETT
This magnetic bond still holds after more than 50 years of attempted escapes. Still loved for their total in-yer-face originality, the contrast between the deadpan humour of Barrett and mad onstage antics of Otway are hilarious to watch. John?s lyrical genius and Willy?s outstanding musicianship (he seems to play almost every stringed instrument known to man, plus a few hybrids of his own making!).
Willy?s interest in making instruments began when he commandeered two guitars made by his dad in 1965. One from an old guitar neck and a scaffold plank which became affectionately known as the Les Dawson, and the other branded the Mk1 Schitstik electric slide of similar pedigree. These instruments were used on many of the early tracks, including Really Free and Racing Cars.
Willy?s remark ?this will be the last time that many of you will see us together again? was often hastily misinterpreted as the final throw of the dice, but the reason given: ?it?s not us packing up, it?s you lot dying off, you know who you are!? is often overlooked by eager scribes. And so the rumours abound.
Last year, John celebrated his 5,000th gig to a packed house at London?s Shepherd?s Bush Empire.
And if that?s not enough, we are now talking about DOCTOR JOHN ? an Honorary PhD in Music by Oxford Brookes University.
?I?m really thrilled to be awarded this totally unexpected honour, especially as I failed all my A levels as I decided to concentrate on preparing for my burgeoning career as a rock star. To get this from Oxford Brookes 50 years later shows I did the right thing.?
For any Otway/Barrett virgins out there who don?t know what to expect, be prepared for everything from bare-chested theremin playing to wah wah wheelie bin as the duo jump from one hit and 40 near misses to another: An amazing and irreverent performance by two master entertainers.

The Fickle Pickle Club stands as a vital cultural artery within Westcliff-on-Sea, a venue with a storied past now vibrantly rekindled. Having once provided a stage for legendary figures before their widespread acclaim, it continues its legacy as a crucial platform for both established and emerging artists, cementing its place as a significant regional hub for live performance and community gathering.
Inside, the atmosphere is one of intimate warmth, where the low-lit space encourages connection between performer and audience. The air often carries the lingering scent of hops and anticipation, while the well-worn surfaces of the bar and seating areas speak to decades of shared experiences and memorable nights.
Located at 228 London Road, adjacent to the Cricketers pub, the club offers a focused bar service, providing a selection of beverages to complement the evening's entertainment. The deliberate absence of bar snacks contributes to a clean, uncluttered environment, allowing the focus to remain squarely on the performances.
Throughout the year, The Fickle Pickle Club curates a diverse programme, encompassing a broad spectrum of live music genres, alongside occasional intimate theatrical productions and private functions. It consistently provides a dynamic space for artists to hone their craft and for audiences to discover new sounds and experiences.
228 London Road,
Westcliff On Sea,
Southend-on-Sea,
Essex,
England,
SS0 7JG.
Sorry, This Event is in the past!
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