Gowan Celebrates 40 Years of Strange Animal at the Venue at River Cree Resort and Casino July 2, 2026

Four decades after Strange Animal first made its mark on Canadian rock, Lawrence Gowan proved Thursday night that great songs—and great showmanship—never go out of style. His 40th Anniversary Strange Animal Tour stop delivered an energetic, theatrical performance that had fans on their feet from the opening notes to the final encore.

Dressed in his trademark kilt and backed by a stellar band featuring his brother Terry Gowan (bass), Derek Sharp (guitar), Jeff Heintz (keyboards/guitar), and Dylan Gowan (drums), Lawrence Gowan delivered the larger-than-life stage presence that has defined his career for more than four decades. Having his son Dylan behind the kit added a special family connection to the 40th Anniversary Strange Animal Tour, while the band's chemistry was undeniable as they powered through classics including A Criminal Mind, (You're a) Strange Animal, Moonlight Desires, Cosmetics, and Dancing on My Own Ground.

Opening pose

Fans left glowing reviews, with many calling it "two hours of amazing energy and remarkable musicianship," while others praised Gowan's ability to sound "as powerful as he did 40 years ago." Longtime concertgoers celebrated the anniversary by recalling seeing him in the 1980s, while first-time attendees discovered why his concerts continue to earn rave reviews generation after generation. His energy is remarkable, entertaining and engaging the crowd throughout the entire night.

The 40th Anniversary Tour continues across Canada before Gowan returns to the road with Styx later this year, giving fans even more opportunities to catch one of Canada's most dynamic performers in action. More than 40 years after Strange Animal first roared onto the charts, Lawrence Gowan continues to prove he's still one of rock's most entertaining and captivating frontmen.