MAGIC MIND
1978 – 1982
In 1978, "Second Coming" renamed to "Magic Mind", kicking off a period of mod-revival sounds, major club residencies, and rich vocal harmonies across Nottingham and Yorkshire.
Line-up 1978
- Kevin Birch: Lead Vocals, Guitar, & Keyboards
- Paul Gains: Lead Guitar, Keyboards, & Backing Vocals
- Gary Watts: Bass Guitar & Backing Vocals
- Cliff Mathews: Drums & Backing Vocals
Featuring a new drummer from Liverpool, Magic Mind took a new direction into the Mod-Revival movement, featuring original compositions alongside established classics. However, due to internal differences, Cliff left the band within a year.
"Magic Mind" Publicity Photo 1979
Line-up 1979
Recruited drummer Steven Carlisle (ex-Maxim / Mecca resident band). The group pivoted back toward full vocal harmony and production numbers.
- Kevin Birch: Lead Vocals, Guitar, & Keyboards
- Paul Gains: Lead Guitar, Saxophone, & Backing Vocals
- Gary Watts: Bass Guitar & Backing Vocals
- Steven Carlisle: Drums, Lead & Backing Vocals
Under management by The Tony Sherwood Organisation in Nottingham, two strong lead vocalists propelled the band forward.
Residencies, Supporting Acts, & Studio Singles
Magic Mind toured extensively, supporting famous acts such as Marmalade, Jigsaw, Fairport Convention, Merton Parkas, and Hot Gossip.
In 1981, signed by Norman Thewlis in Dewsbury, Yorkshire, they recorded two original songs: "Words on the Wall" and "We're Together" at Rainbow Studios in Nottingham.
"Magic Mind" Publicity Photo 1980
1981 End of Era & Transition to Reactor
In 1981, Gary Watts left the band and was replaced by Kevin Dyke. At the end of 1981, Steven Carlisle departed to become the drummer for Mike Pender's Searchers.
This shift inspired an even greater evolutionary step: adopting futuristic electronic instruments, synthesizers, drum machines, and computerized stage lighting under the new band name — Reactor.