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Review By Ian Walker Photos By Damien Harvey 

There are few venues in the world quite like Union Chapel. Steeped in history and renowned for its breathtaking acoustics, this North London treasure has hosted legendary artists from Adele to U2. On Friday, 31st January 2025, it became the perfect backdrop for the Kris Barras Band’s unique and intimate unplugged performance. The result? A mesmerizing evening of stripped-down, soul-stirring music that showcased the raw talent and emotional depth of Kris Barras and his band in a way that electrified the audience.

From the moment Barras took the stage, it was clear that this was going to be something special. With every note, the Union Chapel’s vaulted ceilings provided the perfect resonance, amplifying the warmth and intricacy of each performance. encouraged fans to arrive early and soak in the surroundings before the music began. The anticipation in the air was palpable as the first chords rang out, setting the tone for an evening of sonic brilliance.

A Setlist to Remember

The first set opened with the haunting “Intro,” immediately drawing the audience into the intimate atmosphere. Songs like “Hourglass” and “Secrets” took on a new life in their acoustic renditions, their delicate arrangements allowing Barras’ soulful vocals to take center stage. “Landslide” and “Savages” followed, each delivered with an emotional depth that only an unplugged setting could truly capture.

One of the standout moments of the first set came with “These Voices,” where Barras’ voice carried a raw vulnerability, complemented by the impeccable acoustics of the chapel. The set continued with a free-flowing jam session, an unexpected but welcome addition that highlighted the band’s musicianship and camaraderie. Songs like “Propane” and “Watching Over Me” showcased the rich storytelling in Barras’ songwriting, and the cover of Bob Dylan’s “All Along The Watchtower” was a masterclass in reinvention, as the band breathed fresh life into this iconic track.

A Second Set of Magic

If the first set was emotionally gripping, the second set took things to another level. This time, Barras was joined by Josiah J. Manning on guitar, creating a spellbinding dual-acoustic experience. The energy shifted—while still acoustic, the set felt more intricate, more dynamic, with beautifully layered melodies that captivated the audience.

The interplay between Barras and Manning was mesmerizing; their chemistry was undeniable as they traded licks and harmonized effortlessly. Songs like “Wake Me When It’s Over” and “My Parade” were stripped down to their essence, yet carried an undeniable power. The audience remained engaged throughout, hanging on every note, every lyric, every pause. It was clear that while the performance may have been unplugged, the connection between the band and the audience was stronger than ever.

A Personal and Engaging Performance

Beyond the music, Barras’ warm and down-to-earth stage presence added to the charm of the evening. He frequently interacted with the audience, sharing stories and jokes that made the cavernous Union Chapel feel like an intimate club gig. asking how many people were seeing him live for the first time and seemed intrigued by the number of first-timers. His rapport with the crowd made the evening feel even more special, as if we were all part of something unique

Final Thoughts

Kris Barras Band’s unplugged performance at Union Chapel was nothing short of magical. The setting, the acoustics, the stripped-back arrangements—it all came together to create an unforgettable experience. For fans of Barras, this was an opportunity to hear beloved songs in a new light, appreciating the nuances that often get lost in a full-band setting. For newcomers, it was a perfect introduction to an artist who continues to evolve and push musical boundaries.

Union Chapel proved, once again, why it is one of London’s most cherished venues. And Kris Barras proved that great music doesn’t need amplification to be powerful—it just needs honesty, emotion, and a room full of people willing to listen. A night to remember.

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