So yeah, “Roadrunner” and “Pablo Picasso” are masterful works of proto-punk. In fact, that entire debut Modern Lovers album is fantastic, and Richman will very likely pull from it during this three night run at the Bootleg. But it’s not like Richman has stood still since then, putting out a string of excellent albums including last year’s chill, world music-inspired SA. Tucson drummer Tommy Larkins has been playing with Richman for 18 years now, having previously played in bands such as Naked Prey and Giant Sand. The fact that he gets his name listed at the top alongside Richman speaks volumes.

Jonathan Richman and Tommy Larkins play at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, September 27, Saturday, September 28 and Sunday, September 29 at the Bootleg Theater.

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