Kris Barras Band – SWG3, Glasgow: Devon’s Rock Powerhouse Ignite the Night

Review by Darren McIntyre Images By Scott Anderson

When you talk about the UK’s modern hard rock resurgence, you cannot ignore the relentless rise of Kris Barras. Hailing from Torquay, Devon, Barras has carved out a formidable reputation over the last few years, both as a solo artist and with the Kris Barras Band. From selling out headline tours off the back of The Divine & Dirty to sharing stages with giants like Bon Jovi, Black Stone Cherry, ZZ Top and the legendary Billy Gibbons, Barras has paid his dues. Tonight, SWG3 in Glasgow is packed to bursting as the band rolls into town, ready to deliver a short, sharp, no-nonsense masterclass in modern British rock.

As the lights dim and Tenacious D’s “Tribute” blasts through the PA, the anticipation is electric. The band stroll onstage and waste no time tearing into “Unbreakable”. A thunderous bass kick sets the tone, the guitars bite hard, and Barras’ gravel-soaked vocals cut clean through the mix. It’s a statement opener — confident, muscular and full of intent.

“Dead Horses” follows, darker and moodier, with Kris asking, “How are we doing, Glasgow?” The roar back says it all. Frazer C Kerslake’s basslines groove with swagger, while Billy Hammett’s snare cracks with authority. The twin guitar interplay between Barras and Josiah J. Manning is slick and precise, trading riffs and solos that keep fists pumping high.

“These Voices” brings a sultrier edge. A thick, meaty bassline opens the door before Kris leans into the emotional weight of the track. The band are locked in tight; every dynamic shift feels deliberate and powerful. It’s clear this four-piece are operating at a different level right now.

“Ignite (Light It Up)” does exactly what it promises — a foot-stomping, fist-raising bruiser. The crowd happily shouts the chorus back, the energy ricocheting around SWG3’s industrial walls. It’s loud, fast and utterly infectious.

The new track “All Falls Down” lands with confidence. A shredding riff erupts as cymbal crashes rain down. There’s depth here — swagger mixed with melody — suggesting the forthcoming album could push the band even further. “Monsters We Made” follows, introduced with a cheeky “Don’t get too excited, you haven’t heard it yet!” from Kris. The laugh that follows quickly turns to awe as the gritty rocker explodes into life, packed with crunching riffs and biting vocals.

“Hail Mary” delivers one of the night’s biggest moments. The opening vocal passage ripples through the venue before the full band crashes in. The groove is immense, the crowd singing back on command as Kris fires off a beautifully controlled solo that oozes confidence.

Closing with “My Parade”, the band empty the tank. Snare punches, driving bass and soaring vocals bring the set to a furious climax. Horns are raised, voices are hoarse, and Glasgow is left buzzing.

This may have been a compact set, but it was explosive. The Kris Barras Band are tighter, heavier and more assured than ever. If tonight is anything to go by, the next chapter for this Devon powerhouse is going to be huge.

Kris Barras Band
Kris Barras – Vocals / Guitar
Josiah J Manning – Guitar / Backing Vocals
Frazer C Kerslake – Bass / Backing Vocals
Billy Hammett – Drums

Setlist:
Unbreakable
Dead Horses
These Voices
Ignite (Light It Up)
All Falls Down
Monsters We Made
Hail Mary
My Parade