Calgary Music History: Shows that Changed My Life
Written by Pete Emes of Smalltown DJs
A great live show can have lifelong impact. Calgary born and raised Pete Emes, now a world touring DJ and producer, recounts his most memorable live music moments and the Calgary venues that made them happen.
Wagbeard and Primrods, The Factory - Jan 22, 1994. These were Calgary’s two best bands from that era, on one bill. I was more of a Primrods fan at the time, but looking back I probably prefer Wagbeard now. This show was an unreal explosion of sound and energy, the best thing I had ever been to at that time. Primrods were signed to Geffen (home of Nirvana and Sonic Youth) but dropped at some point without a fair shake. I ended up working with Chris from Wagbeard at the Night Gallery and he was like a rock legend to me. The Factory was my main nighttime destination then, that and the Castle Pub (where we watched OJ run from the police Friday, June 17 1994).
Pete Emes in one half of Calgary’s Smalltown DJs, an owner of the Hi Fi Club and is set to open a new venue, the Commonwealth Bar and Stage, this summer.
