Richard Pleasance was the long-time guitarist for Boom Crash Opera, having formed the group with Peter Farnen in 1985.

He took time off from that group in 1990 due to a condition known as tinnitus, or a ringing in the ears. The condition prevented him from touring with Boom Crash Opera, so during his recuperative period Pleasance took the opportunity to begin a solo career.

In 1991, his debut solo album, Galleon, appeared. The album was fairly dark and was a reflection on a relationship that had just ended. Despite the single "Sarah (I Miss You)" gaining some attention from Australian radio, the album was largely ignored. Pleasance officially severed his ties with Boom Crash Opera after the release of Galleon. A second album, Colour-Blind, was released in 1994. In terms of lyrical content, it was a complete reversal of Galleon and was a celebration of Pleasance's contentment with his marriage. Again, apart from one minor single (the title track), the album failed to receive any significant attention. ~ Jonathan Lewis, All Music Guide