Ride and Talk Talk reunite for The Colour Of Spring in London


A sonic pilgrimage to the past recently unfolded in London, as musicians from the legendary Talk Talk reunited to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their seminal album, The Colour Of Spring.

The celebration was more than just a retrospective; it was a vibrant gathering of artists who shared a deep connection to the band’s groundbreaking, evolving sound. Bringing together a constellation of talent, the event transformed the O2 Forum Kentish Town into a place steeped in the warm, experimental atmosphere that defined Talk Talk’s artistic journey.

The milestone album, released in 1986, represented a pivotal moment for the group. It marked a deliberate shift away from the synthpop of their earlier success, embracing a more layered, organic approach infused with jazz and art pop influences. This evolution is perhaps best encapsulated by the legacy of the band’s late singer, Mark Hollis, whose thoughtful vision remains profoundly influential.

The reunion featured a remarkable array of participants, bridging the gap between the iconic core members and a host of celebrated contemporaries. On stage, the tribute paid to the late Hollis was shared by those who helped craft the sound of the era. Musicians like Simon Brenner, the founding keyboardist, alongside Phil Ramocon and Ian Curnow, paid homage to Hollis’s enduring legacy.

The lineup extended far beyond the core group. Guests who joined the proceedings included Ride’s Mark Gardener, Ed Harcourt, and Fyfe Dangerfield, alongside other creative forces such as Sophie Barker, Zero 7, Turin Brakes’ Gale Paridjanian, Tim Eisenburg (Sweet Billy Pilgrim), Chris Hampson, Jacob Brown, and Guillemots.

The performance was a masterful blend of nostalgia and innovation. The setlist expertly wove tracks from The Colour of Spring with other defining moments from the band’s discography, creating a seamless journey through their musical history. Tracks like “The Colour of Spring,” “Living in Another World,” and “I Believe in You” anchored the performance, demonstrating the depth and breadth of their creative output.

The evening culminated in a celebratory display, featuring fan favorites such as “Happiness Is Easy,” “Tomorrow Started,” and “It’s My Life,” and closing with the unifying anthem, “Life’s What You Make It,” bringing all the celebrated performers together in a final, unforgettable collective moment.

You may also like: