The first thing people tend to notice about Richard Townsend is his legendary facial hair. And it is worth noticing. Before moving on to a full beard, Richard’s right mutton-chop was a noted authority on thermal engineering and was narrowly beaten out by Stephen Chu for the position of Secretary of Energy. His left mutton-chop was a successful spoken-word poet and playwright, and will be going on a book tour in January to promote its latest collection of poems, entitled Burn, Side, Burn. Richard himself glows red with barely contained energy, and most enjoys making use of his tremendous vocal range on behalf of the Obertones, singing whatever part is need just because he can. When not rehearsing, he also acts as the ‘Tones webmaster and works part time as a stop sign. He regretfully but firmly reminds fans that neither he nor his facial hair sign body parts.