Billy Gibbons, Centre In The Square
Walking into Centre in the Square in downtown Kitchener, you could feel the buzz not just from the crowd, but from the theatre’s warm, intimate acoustics that locals regularly praise for offering great sound no matter where you’re seated.
From the moment Billy F. Gibbons, the iconic frontman and guitar virtuoso best known for his work with ZZ Top, hit the stage with his BFG Band, it was clear this wasn’t just a nostalgia show it was an energized blues-rock celebration of his lifelong musical craft.
Gibbons, sporting his signature long beard, hat and sunglasses, took command of his guitar from the first note. His tone gritty, rich and expressive cut through the room with a masterful blend of blues, rock and Texas swagger that only a seasoned player could deliver.
The setlist was a well-balanced mix of classic crowd pleasers and deep cuts. Standards like “La Grange” and “Sharp Dressed Man” brought cheers and sing-alongs, while bluesy explorations and covers allowed the band to stretch out and showcase technical skill and groove. Interspersed with Gibbons’ dry humor and stories about his musical journey, the performance felt personal like a shared experience between friends in a roomful of appreciative fans.
Musically, the band locked in tight. Drummer Chris “Whipper” Layton (of Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble fame) and bassist/keyboardist Mike Flanigin provided rhythmic depth and flexibility that let Gibbons soar without ever losing the groove.
The audience response matched the musical intensity: applause peaked after every fiery solo and roaring chorus, and by the encore, the room was buzzing with excitement and respect for a musician whose playing still burns with passion decades into his career.
Bottom Line: Gibbons’ show at Centre in the Square wasn’t just a tribute to his legacy it was proof that great blues-rock still has plenty of life left in it. For fans of guitar prowess and roots-infused rock, this was a night worth the ticket.
