V is for Vini Reilly
Vini Reilly was the first artist ever signed to Factory Records, and with good reason. Not only did Tony Wilson love his music, but everyone else in the music industry does as well; he’s been described as the best guitarist in the world and his albums named as all-time favourites by industry superstars. Both brilliant and prolific, Vini has worked not only with his own project, The Durutti Column, but with many of the bands on the Factory label and such high-profile artists as Morrissey and John Cooper Clarke. Although he’s faced a number of obstacles lately, Vini still plays and is working on recording for a new album; you can find his (highly-recommended) work here.
Vini Reilly is amazing. John Frusciante of the Red Hot Chili Peppers has described him as “the best guitarist in the world,” and he isn’t wrong. Vini does things with a guitar that you can’t even imagine.
He’s also been through a really difficult time lately, in every possible way; he’s had health troubles, financial troubles, been unable to play, and despite all of it, he’s basically one of the most wonderful people in existence. He isn’t accepting donations, but if you like his music and you have the cash to spare, please consider buying one (or more!) of his albums. Trust me; it’s worth it.
