British blues-rock icon and former MMA fighter Kris Barras is going back to where it all began — the blues. Best known for fronting the hard-hitting Kris Barras Band (KBB), Barras has now launched a brand-new musical collective called Hollow Souls, a project that marks a soulful return to his blues-rock roots.
To celebrate, Hollow Souls have announced their first UK headline tour, taking place across October and November 2025. Tickets go on pre-sale exclusively through Planet Rock from 10am on Thursday, March 27, followed by general sale at 10am on Monday, March 31 via The Gig Cartel.
From Torquay to Global Stages
Hailing from humble beginnings in Torquay, Devon, Kris Barras has forged an extraordinary path — from fighting in the MMA cage to trading solos with the likes of Joe Bonamassa and Billy Gibbons. His recent success with the Kris Barras Band includes a Top 5 UK album (Halo Effect), sold-out castle shows, and a headline spot at Planet Rockstock.
But while KBB’s sound has evolved into heavier territory — shaped by songwriting partnerships in the U.S. and a signing with Earache Records — Barras has never let go of his blues heritage. Hollow Souls is the result of that creative tug: a blues-rock revival built during downtime, inspired by jam sessions and fuelled by passion.
The Birth of Hollow Souls
Barras formed Hollow Souls alongside long-time collaborator and producer Josiah J Manning, using Momentum Studios in Plymouth as their creative base. The lineup grew quickly with the addition of drummer Joe Harris (Toby Lee / Lack of Afro) and bassist Leighton Allen (Callum Scott / The Hoosiers).
But it was the return of powerhouse vocalist Phoebe Jane — a former KBB backing singer — that sparked something new. Writing for her extraordinary range became the turning point that transformed a casual jam project into a full-blown band. Hollow Souls was born.
“We knew we had found a singer with which our musical palette could continue to evolve,” said Kris.
Debut Single: Borderline
Hollow Souls’ first single “Borderline” is out now on all digital platforms via the band’s own label imprint. Recorded live in one take at Momentum Studios, the track captures raw energy and classic blues-rock spirit.
The song also features a fiery guest appearance from U.S. blues-rock rising star Jared James Nichols, who contributed lead guitar remotely.
“I have really admired Jared’s playing for some time,” Kris says. “His contribution to this song is massive. We gave him creative license to play whatever he wanted. I am so stoked with the results.”
Watch the Borderline official music video on YouTube and stream it now on all major platforms from Friday, March 28.
Making a Statement with a 20-Date UK Tour
More than just a studio project, Hollow Souls has hit the ground running with a bold announcement: a 20-date UK tour later this year. For Kris, it’s a chance to return to the grassroots venues that helped launch his early career, now with a fresh new sound and a new creative vision.
“This is a clean sweep of the UK blues-rock circuit,” reads the announcement. “A real statement of intent.”
With Hollow Souls, Kris Barras is reconnecting with the blues scene that first gave him a voice — and making sure that voice now sounds louder, freer, and more inspired than ever.
📅 Planet Rock pre-sale: Thursday 27 March at 10am via Planet Rock Tickets
🎟 General sale: Monday 31 March at 10am at thegigcartel.com
