Durutti Column Salute Late Factory Records Boss

Despite being inextricably linked with the two-headed beast that was Joy Division/New Order, it was with Durutti Column that the late Factory Records supremo Antony H. Wilson worked with the longest. Given such a long pedigree, it was fitting that Durutti Column -- the label's first singing back in 1978 -- should pay tribute to their guiding light and mentor with this second and final performance of 'A Paean to Wilson.'

Wilson's voice is the first thing heard tonight as it repeats the question, "Are you an artist or a technician?" and it's one that could easily be applied to Durutti Column mainstay Vini Reilly. While many of his contemporaries have passed away or simply given up the ghost, 56-year-old Reilly has gone on to become one of Britain's most idiosyncratic and creative guitar players and his performance at the Leicester Square Theatre on Sunday night (Jan. 31) was by turns touching, poignant and heartfelt.

The three-piece was augmented by former Simply Red trumpeter Tim Kellet, violinist John Metcalfe and keyboardist Poppy Morgan who had to leave the gig early due to her day job as a school teacher.

As well as performing 'A Paean to Wilson,' the band took time to revisit their past with 'Sketch for Summer' from the band's 1980 debut album, 'The Return of the Durutti Column' proving to be a particular highlight.

And so the concert began as it ended -- with Tony Wilson's voice once more coming forth from the speakers as he berated New Labour from his hospital bed. An emotional experience from start to finish, Durutti Column provided a unique and fitting tribute to one British music's greatest mavericks.