Q & A
CHRIS HERIN
The guitarist on his personal solo album, teaming up with Alex Lifeson, and rumours of anew Tiles release.
Words: Rich Wilson Portrait: Matthew Parmenter and Hugh Syme
Just over 30 years ago, guitarist Chris Herin formed US prog rockers Tiles, who recorded six well-received albums, prior to going on hiatus in 2018, following the release of Pretending 2 Run. Herin has retained a low profile over the intervening years but has now returned with his first solo album, Hiding In Plain Sight. The recording includes guest appearances from more than 30 musicians, including Peter Frampton, Alex Lifeson and Jethro Tull alumni Martin Barre, John O’Hara and Doane Perry. Herin was aided in the creation of the album by famed Rush producer Terry Brown, who helped shape its sound and introduced some of those musicians. Lyrically, it deals with the sensitive topic of Alzheimer’s disease, influenced by Herin watching his own father’s challenges with the condition. With talk of Tiles reuniting, Herin reflects on the extensive creative process that led to the release of this most personal of albums.