A bit harsh there Rolo, at the end of the day, whatever one it is that he is doing he is "at work". We are all at work, and some people away from their families in different towns or countries. That his family is able to live the live that they do is down to the work that he does. That he was away was bad luck. I'm surprised it didn't lead him to consider slowing things up a bit, although that was around the time just before the release of BWC if I recall so the wheels for that project for him would have been in motion so maybe it will do now given that Richie's decision may have forced him into it.

From that interview it could well be that things are broadly the same, Richie being the free-spirit type character who needs to be co-erced by Jon to fit into the band dynamic. But Jon the boss wasn't able to this time. Although, as with all interviews clearly some pinches of salt need to be taken with regards to how both Jon & Richie view themselves.

Interesting nonetheless, thanks for the link.