Chris Barnes
I'm MusicRadar's eCommerce Editor. In addition to testing the latest music gear, with a particular focus on electronic drums, it's my job to manage the 300+ buyer's guides on MusicRadar and help musicians find the right gear for them at the best prices. I dabble with guitar, but my main instrument is the drums, which I have been playing for 24 years. I've been a part of the music gear industry for 20 years, including 7 years as Editor of the UK's best-selling drum magazine Rhythm, and 5 years as a freelance music writer, during which time I worked with the world's biggest instrument brands including Roland, Boss, Laney and Natal.
Latest articles by Chris Barnes

By Chris Barnes Published
Not all of Zildjian’s NAMM launches are made of metal...

By Chris Barnes Published
Lower the volume of your drums with a quick head change

By Chris Barnes Published
Unique hammering and lathing lies at the heart of these handcrafted metals

By Chris Barnes Published
The future looks really, really bright

By Chris Barnes Published
Play 'That Great Gretsch Sound' practically anywhere

By Chris Barnes Published
Plus, Oriental Crash Of Doom unleashed in 22" size

By Chris Barnes Published
Rarely used hardwood delivers extra punch and brightness

By Chris Barnes Published
The Brighton metaller on how Architects' magnum opus, Holy Hell, came into being in the wake of unimaginable tragedy

By Chris Barnes Published
From recording with S Club 7 to Feeder, we meet one of the most prolific British session drummers you’ve never heard of

By Chris Barnes Published
From backflips to slam dunks

By Chris Barnes Published
Mega gigs, movie sessions and the British Drum Co

By Chris Barnes Published
The drum world’s newest sensation discusses his musical upbringing

By Chris Barnes Published
Drummer reflects on his evolution as a player and the importance of heavier side projects

By Chris Barnes Published
From touring the world and producing hits to mentoring and inspiring the next generation

By Chris Barnes Published
Two players are better than one?

By Chris Barnes Published
Farro discusses his return

By Chris Barnes Published
The Smiths went from indie rock innovators to cult heroes in just six years. Drummer Mike Joyce looks back on his rhythmic contributions that helped fuel the musical magic

By Chris Barnes Published
Session hero on home studios, The Voice and much more

By Chris Barnes Published
Prog drumming virtuoso picks the albums that shaped him

By Chris Barnes Published
Boston drummer shares his top tips

By Chris Barnes Published
Modern metal drumming hero talks

By Chris Barnes Published
Ex-Bad Religion man discusses The Stage
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