Review on Lips That Would Durutti Column by Jessica Thomas

Personally, I love "things like that," as one reviewer mockingly dubbed the music Durutti Column. I can't think of any other artist who had such a distinctive and intriguing sound back in the 1980's when these songs were recorded. In fact, nobody else sounded like Durutti's Column. Vinnie Reilly's deft guitar playing, filtered and reverberant, combined with the hypnotic rhythm of drum machines created an eerily soothing effect. Any comparison to this magical music and "pop food" is extremely misplaced. Lately I've been coming back and playing this CD over and over again and I'm still impressed by these songs, or rather these complex, multi-layered compositions. Whatever you call these works, they're definitely not pop tunes, but they still have enduring magic and power. The main editorial provides a quick overview of what to expect from this album. This is actually a collection of tracks recorded by Durutti's Column, or rather Vinnie Reilly, in the early 1980's and at least 9 tracks are from the then unreleased "Short Stories for Pauline" album (which was new and with great is late). , released as a 2-CD set with bonus live tracks). Once again, Vinny Reilly pulls his most enchanting guitar magic on these songs, but he also plays a little piano. In fact, the final track "Piece For Out of Tune Grand Piano" is a 12 minute keyboard tour. The presence of Blaine Reininger (of Tuxedomoon) on violin also adds a nice touch to some of the tracks, giving the pieces an almost classical vibe. Reilly himself is credited with making the 'plastic ruler', in addition to playing guitar, bass, piano and programming drum machines (which in turn are an integral part of the overall soundscape). I highly recommend this CD to Vinny Reilly, or even to a newbie who wants to know why this "band" is so popular with fans.