Exclusive Interview: Kris Barras Reveals Secrets Behind New Album ‘Halo Effect’, Billy Gibbons’ Top Advice, and Embracing Comparison to Richie Kotzen – You Won’t Believe What He Shares!
Kris Barras, a former MMA champion turned singer and guitarist, hails from the scenic West Country town of Torquay. Despite the allure of London, Barras prefers the tranquility of his hometown, where he finds inspiration for his music. His band, the Kris Barras Band, recently released their fifth album, Halo Effect, featuring a new, heavier sound infused with metal elements, a departure from their original blues-rock roots.
Barras revealed that much of the writing for Halo Effect took place on the tour bus during their supporting tour for the 2022 album Death Valley Paradise. Rather than indulging in excessive partying, the band set up a studio onboard to focus on crafting the heaviest set they’ve ever performed, which laid the foundation for their latest record.
The album’s title, ‘The Halo Effect,’ delves into a psychological concept where individuals form biased opinions based on an individual’s favorable qualities. Barras uses the album to shed light on societal issues and the unequal power dynamics prevalent in today’s world.
Tracks like ‘Unbreakable’ and ‘Savage’ explore themes of resilience and social commentary, reflecting Barras’s personal journey and observations of the world around him. Despite evolving from his blues-rock origins, Barras insists that the transition was organic and not driven by commercial motives, noting the importance of artistic growth and expression.
While some long-time fans may have reservations about the band’s musical evolution, Barras remains steadfast in his creative direction. He acknowledges the occasional criticism but stands by his decision to explore new musical territories and broaden his creative horizons.
In addition to his work with the Kris Barras Band, Barras continues to collaborate with projects like Supersonic Blues Machine alongside renowned musicians such as Billy Gibbons. Drawing inspiration from his experiences on the road, Barras values Gibbons’ advice on perseverance and gratitude, emphasizing the privilege of pursuing a career in music.
Despite Torquay’s notable residents like Agatha Christie and Peter Cook, Barras remains humble about his own fame. While he hasn’t received any official accolades from his hometown yet, Barras remains open to the possibility of revisiting his blues-rock roots in the future, hinting at a potential throwback tour or project down the line.
With Halo Effect marking a new chapter in Barras’s musical journey, fans can expect a dynamic and captivating listening experience when the album drops on April 12th via Earache Records.
