The Durutti Column / Renascent / London Records – By John Matthews

Magical musical musings care of the marvellous John Matthews. The Durutti Column formed in Manchester in 1978 and were one of the first acts signed by Tony Wilson to Factory records. Originally a short-lived group, over the last 40 years the band has transformed into the singular vehicle of gifted, elusive guitarist Vini Reilly. A truly unique and gifted musician whose ethereal, delicate playing has always distinguished him from his post-punk peers. On Renascent, the Durutti Column’s first album in 16 years, Reilly has decided to work alongside core collaborators Bruce Mitchell and Kier Stewart, but those post-punk roots have been shed for a clean, ambient sound that feels vital and modern. In 2010, Reilly suffered 3 strokes that apparently left him, initially, unable to play the guitar. However, he has managed to relearn his instrument and adjusted his technique to incorporate slower tempos and sparser arrangements. Renascent certainly reflects these changes and the result is a…