Following their storming debut earlier this year, Hollow Souls are back with a vengeance. The blues-rock super-collective led by Kris Barras has released their second single, “Shotgun,” featuring the unmistakable gravel and grit of Jon ‘Marv’ Harvey, frontman of Canadian southern rock titans Monster Truck.
After March’s high-octane debut single “Borderline”—featuring powerhouse vocals from Phoebe Jane—Hollow Souls have wasted no time in delivering their next knockout blow. This time, Phoebe steps into a backing role, lending soulful harmony to Harvey’s rasping lead, weaving together the band’s trademark blend of vintage blues muscle and modern rock swagger.
The track is once again the result of the creative partnership between Kris Barras and producer Josiah J Manning, written and recorded at Momentum Studios in Plymouth. A thick, stomp-heavy riff laid the foundation, but it was Harvey’s explosive vocal and lyrical input that elevated it. “We’ve been talking about writing a song with Marv for a long time,” Kris explains. “We knew instantly that this was the track for him. What he sent back blew us away—his vocals, his storytelling. Just incredible.”
Harvey, known for his raw vocal power and lyrical grit, spins a tale of bar brawls and hard living on “Shotgun.” The track builds tension through growling guitar tones and gospel-tinged choruses, before peaking with a scorcher of a solo from Kris himself—full of fiery phrasing and full-throttle blues-rock energy.
Released via Hollow Souls’ own label imprint, “Shotgun” arrives as a taster for the band’s upcoming EP, set for release in September. The buzz is growing fast—not least thanks to the success of their debut, “Borderline,” and a 20-date UK tour this autumn that includes major cities and rising festival stages.
That Hollow Souls even exist is a testament to the vibrant creative energy of the UK blues-rock scene. Formed as a side project in Devon, the band’s lineup grew organically around Kris and long-time studio partner Josiah Manning. With drummer Joe Harris (Toby Lee, Lack of Afro), bassist Leighton Allen (Callum Scott, The Hoosiers), and the explosive talents of Phoebe Jane on vocals, Hollow Souls evolved from studio jam band to full-blown touring force in the space of a year.
Kris, whose own Kris Barras Band has enjoyed major UK chart success and headline status at events like Planet Rockstock, continues to ride a wave of creative output. Inspired by his work with international supergroup Supersonic Blues Machine, Hollow Souls is where Barras lets loose with collaborative spirit—and the result is electric.
With “Shotgun” now locked and loaded, and a tour looming on the horizon, Hollow Souls are well on their way to becoming the next powerhouse name in UK blues rock. Watch out—the fire’s only just started.
“Shotgun” by Hollow Souls is out now on all streaming platforms. For tickets and more info, visit thegigcartel.com or krisbarrasband.com.
