Every week, we’ll be posting a new illustration by David Lester. The Mecca Normal guitarist is visually documenting people, places and events from his band’s 40-year run, with text by vocalist Jean Smith.
Richard, the character, was created as a composite of traits, enough of which would resonate with listeners who might then identify a “Richard” in their lives.
Back then, a song could be something of a lifeline away from oppressive situations. Songs can probably still pull listeners to better places, but there are so many other avenues of empathy to take. It’s a wonder they, these avenues, are not crowded with better times.
“Richard” from Calico Kills The Cat (K, 1988) (download):
