Kris Barras // This Is My Parade UK Tour // Live Review // The Garage // London

As I make my way through the bustling streets of London, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement building within me. Tonight, I’m going to see one of the UK’s most promising blues breakthrough artists – Kris Barras – perform live at The Garage, London.

As I arrive at the venue, the sound of electric guitars and pounding drums seeps through the walls and spills out onto the street. The air is thick with the anticipation of what’s to come. I make my way inside and am immediately hit with the crowd’s energy. This is going to be epic! Kiris is a monster player and the guys he has surrounded himself with can equally keep up and deliver one of the finest live performances on the road today. First, though we have the highly rated Dea Matrona, the queens of Northern-Irish indie rock to whet the appetite, let’s find out what all the fuss is about!

As a music lover, there’s nothing quite like discovering a new band that immediately grabs your attention and leaves you wanting more. That’s exactly how I felt when I saw Dea Matrona perform.

Hailing from Northern Ireland, Dea Matrona is a trio of talented musicians formed initially by – Mollie McGinn and Orlaith Forsythe, they have been making waves in the music scene with their unique blend of rock, punk, and blues. As someone who had never heard of them before, I was intrigued to see what they had in store for us.

From the moment they took the stage, it was clear that Dea Matrona was not your average opening act. Their energy was infectious, and their music was a powerful combination of hard-hitting guitar riffs and soulful vocals. As they launched into their first song, I found myself nodding along to the beat and tapping my foot in time with the drums.

One of the things that struck me most about Dea Matrona was their chemistry as a band. They played off of each other effortlessly, their instruments and voices blending together seamlessly. It was clear that they had spent countless miles on the road perfecting their craft, and it showed in the way they played.

As the set went on, I found myself becoming more and more invested in the music. Their songs were catchy and memorable, with lyrics that spoke to me on a personal level. I could feel the passion and emotion in their performance, and it was clear that they were giving it their all on that stage.

One of the standout moments of the night came when Dea Matrona performed their hit song “Get My Mind Off” The crowd was fully engaged, singing along to every word and swaying to the rhythm. It was a moment of pure joy and connection, with the band and the audience coming together as one.

As their set came to a close, I found myself wanting more. Dea Matrona had left a lasting impression on me, and I knew that I would follow their journey from here on. Their music was a powerful blend of rock, punk, and blues, with a unique sound that set them apart from other bands in the genre.

As I made my way out of the venue and back into the real world, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experience I had just had. Dea Matrona had shown me that there was still great music being made in the world and that there were talented musicians out there pushing the boundaries of what was possible.

If you’re a music lover looking for something new and exciting, I would highly recommend checking out Dea Matrona. Their music is a powerful combination of rock, punk, and blues, with a unique sound that is sure to leave you wanting more. They may have been the opening act on the “This Is My Parade” UK Tour, but to me, they shone like the true stars they are!

The ladies just announced a UK & Ireland Tour today:

 

https://ffm.to/getmymindoff

https://deamatrona.co.uk

A swift changeover and we brace ourselves for our six-string guitar hero to deliver as he always does.

Kris Barras has had an interesting journey to get to this point in his career. Before becoming a musician, he was a professional kickboxer, a sport that requires not only physical strength but mental toughness as well. It’s no surprise then that his music exudes the same kind of raw energy and intensity that must have fueled his previous athletic pursuits.

Barras has been grafting for years and touring relentlessly and he gained widespread recognition as a member of The Supersonic Blues Machine, a supergroup made up of seasoned blues musicians. But it was as a solo artist that Barras truly found his voice. His blues-rock style is a unique blend of classic and modern influences, resulting in a sound that is both timeless and contemporary.

As the lights dim, the audience erupts into cheers and applause. The band takes the stage and launches into their first song. Barras’ guitar playing is electric – he effortlessly moves from soulful, bluesy riffs to searing solos that send shivers down my spine. His vocals are equally impressive, with a gravelly edge that perfectly complements the bluesy sound.

The band powers through their set, each song building on the last. The crowd is fully immersed in the experience, swaying and singing along to every word. Barras’ stage presence is magnetic – he commands attention with his sheer passion and energy.

One of the standout moments of the night comes when Barras takes a break from his guitar to perform with his mic in hand, getting himself up close and personal with the crowd down on the floor. Here his raw talent shines through. It’s clear that Barras isn’t just a skilled guitarist – he’s a true musician in every sense of the word.

As the night comes to a close, the crowd is left wanting more. Barras and his band return for an encore, treating us to one final song. The energy in the room is palpable as the band plays with all they’ve got, leaving everything on the stage.

Watching Kris Barras live is an experience like no other. His passion for music is infectious, and his talent is undeniable. As one of the UK’s most promising blues break-through artists over the last few years, he’s quickly making a name for himself in the world of blues-rock.

But what truly sets Barras apart is his genuine love for the music he creates. It’s not just a job for him – it’s a calling. He pours his heart and soul into every note, and it shows. His music is a testament to the power of the blues – a genre that has the ability to connect with people on a deep, emotional level.

As I make my way out of the venue and back onto the streets of London, I can’t help but feel grateful for the experience I’ve just had. Kris Barras and his band gave their all on that stage, and it’s a night that I won’t soon forget. If you have the chance to see Barras perform live, don’t hesitate – it’s an experience you won’t regret.

 

A BIG thank you to Deni Barras for the use of her images #respect

 

 

New Album ‘Death Valley Paradise’ OUT NOW
Via Mascot Records / Mascot Label Group

Also, watch the videos for “My Parade” “Dead Horses” | “These Voices” |Who Needs Enemies
VADA Session: “Forget Me (Lewis Capaldi cover)” | “Chaos (VADA Sessions)” | “Hail Mary (VADA Sessions)”

You can listen to Death Valley Paradise on Spotify HERE

Photo (c) John McMurtie

 

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