Photos and Review by Ilya Mirman
This week, blues-rock legend Billy F. Gibbons brought his signature Texas swagger to The Cabot in Beverly, Massachusetts, for a night of raw, electrifying music. Accompanied by two powerhouse musicians—Mike “The Drifter” Flanigin on Hammond B3 organ and bass, and Chris “Whipper” Layton on drums—Gibbons delivered a set that was equal parts gritty blues and rock ‘n’ roll spectacle.
Flanigin, a veteran of the Austin blues scene, is renowned for his work on the Hammond B3, having played alongside icons like Jimmie Vaughan and Gary Clark Jr. On this tour, he pulled double duty, anchoring the low end with deft bass work in addition to his organ wizardry. Layton, best known as the drummer for Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble, brought his rock-solid groove and deep blues sensibilities, providing the perfect rhythmic foundation for Gibbons’ searing guitar licks.
The night kicked off with the unmistakable riff of “Waitin’ for the Bus,” flowing seamlessly into “Jesus Just Left Chicago,” setting the tone for a blues-soaked evening. Flanigin’s swirling organ fills and bass lines meshed seamlessly with Layton’s steady pulse, allowing Gibbons to weave his signature fuzz-laden guitar work into the mix.
Fan favorites like “Gimme All Your Lovin’” and “Cheap Sunglasses” kept the energy high, with the trio locking into a deep, driving groove. A standout moment came with their take on The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s “Foxy Lady,” where Gibbons let loose with wailing bends and dive-bombing licks, his guitar tone dripping with attitude.
Digging into his blues roots, Gibbons delivered a slow-burning rendition of “Blue Jean Blues,” his smoky vocals and mournful guitar phrasing holding the audience spellbound. Slim Harpo’s “I Got Love If You Want It” was another highlight, showcasing Flanigin’s ability to channel classic blues textures on the B3 while simultaneously holding down the bass line.
Of course, no Billy Gibbons show would be complete without “La Grange,” and the trio did not disappoint. The signature boogie riff had the entire venue stomping along, Gibbons flashing his trademark grin as he tore through the song’s fiery solo.
For the encore, the band launched into a spirited version of Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues,” Gibbons putting his own Texas spin on the classic, before closing the night with the high-octane romp of “Thunderbird.”
Throughout the night, the synergy between the three musicians was undeniable. Flanigin’s ability to juggle organ and bass duties gave the trio a full-bodied sound, while Layton’s rock-solid drumming provided the heartbeat. At the center of it all, Gibbons was the ringleader, effortlessly blending blues authenticity with rock bravado.
By the time the final notes rang out, it was clear that this wasn’t just another concert—it was a masterclass in blues-rock delivered by three musicians with a deep, undeniable connection to the music. For those lucky enough to be at The Cabot that night, it was an unforgettable experience.