The Durutti Column - Short Stories For Pauline

The Durutti Column’s Short Stories returns via Factory Benelux. Recorded by Vini Reilly in Brussels in late 1983, the album was originally intended to become the fourth Durutti Column LP before being abandoned in favour of the more overtly neo-classical Without Mercy. Across 14 instrumental pieces, Reilly moves between fragile melodies, restrained atmospherics and quietly intricate arrangements. Highlights include ‘College’, ‘A Room in Southport’ and the centrepiece ‘Duet’, recorded with Tuxedomoon member Blaine L. Reininger. That collaboration ultimately reshaped the project’s direction after Tony Wilson encouraged Reilly to expand its orchestral approach into an entirely different album. Additional contributions come from drummer Alain Lefebvre, harpist Anne van den Troost and saxophonist Eric Sleichim, giving the record a subtle richness that sits comfortably alongside the group’s most reflective work.