Exclusive interview - Krys Baratto

Interview with Krys Baratto for RobbinCrosby.net:

Hey all, here's an interview with Krys Baratto, a former member of Robbin's post-RATT band, Secret Service. Krys recently did a 20 questions with Metal Sludge and was nice enough to take some time to answer a few questions about his time in Secret Service. Not a lot of info is readily available about the band, and we're really greatful to Krys for his time. 

Q: You were the bass player for Secret Service; a post-Ratt project of Robbin's. How did you initially meet him? Had you known him previously? How did the band come together? I don't imagine you saw an ad in guitar center and went from there...

A: Indeed I was the bass player for Secret Service. That’s funny about the Guitar Center add. No he didn’t post an add there. I honestly can’t remember how I was introduced to Robbin. I think it may have been through Dino the drummer. He, Robbin, and the other guitarist Mark Lewis had been working on some songs. 

Q: Besides you and Robbin, who were the other band members of Secret Service?

A: There was Perry McCarty from Warrior and Steve Stevens Atomic Playboys on vocals, Dino Guerrero from The Hangmen on drums, a great session guitar player by the name of Mark Lewis on second guitar, and of course yours truly on bass.

Q: Was the music in the same general vein as Ratt, or were you guys going in a different direction? Did you and Robbin write together, or did the material come from other guys?

A: The music had a bit of a RATT feel to it as Robbin wrote petty much all of the RATT material. With Perry’s voice it was a bit heavier, and with me and Dino there was a bit more of a groove with an edge to it. It was really some great stuff. Robbin came in with a song idea and we all put our two cents in to make it it’s own special little ditty.

Q: How long was Secret Service together? Did you guys gig at all? Was anything ever recorded, and if so, does any of that music still exist somewhere?

A: The band was pretty much together for like about two years. There were never any gigs done, although we were offered quite a few, but we never played out. We focused on writing and recording. There are existing recordings probably at the studio where we were recording. I don’t think it can really come out only because of rights and all of that fun legal stuff. 

Q: In your opinion, what brought about the end of the band? Had you and Robbin kept in touch at all after the band split up?

A: The band just kind of fizzled mainly because of Robbins addictions. Nothing could get done in the right time frame. You could not really count on him to follow through with his end. That’s not saying he wasn’t a great guy and a great friend, but, it is really hard to work with someone who is an addict. So, everyone in the band just started, or kept on, doing their own thing. We did keep in touch right up until the end. We were always close friends. I believe he is in a better place and probably much happier now. Rest in peace my friend...

Q: You mentioned in your 20 Questions with Metal Sludge that Robbin had lived with you for some time. How was he as a room mate? Any anecdotes come to mind that you'd like to share?

A: Robbin was, well, nice to have around at times- other times it was a nightmare !!!. You know, there are quite a few things that come to mind, but out of respect I will kinda just keep them to myself, sorry, but that’s just the way I am about my friends. Nothing bad don’t get me wrong. He was a really kind soul as I’m sure if you talk to anyone who really knew him would tell you. When he had money he was very generous, he would take me to some really cool places to eat- he liked to do that- and always knew just what to order. We had a lot of great times. 

Q: Robbin had a habit of giving nicknames to everyone. Did you have one?

A: That’s funny because it’s so true. But you know, he never “dubbed” me anything. That’s kinda too bad- I feel left out!!

Q: Is there anything that you'd like to add? I know I'm not really Barbara Walters or anything, so feel free to add whatever you'd like!

A: Well, I would just like to add that it was great knowing Robbin and great to play with him. Always a friend..................

Thanks again for taking the time to chat with us, we really appreciate it!