How many Calgary albums do you know? We bet you’ve at least got a couple of favourites. Calgary’s music might not be globally famous, but it’s full of heart — and absolutely worth celebrating. That’s the spirit behind The Scene’s recent project, 25 for 25, spotlighting 25 Calgary albums that shaped the city. The story of the project is long, but what’s important: it landed on a high note.
We wrapped it up with our first-ever event at The Establishment Brewing Company. The place already carried a festive mood: a huge Christmas tree made of beer cans, lively chatter, a bit of taproom bustle, and that perfect brewery warmth.
It was a small, cozy gathering. Among our guests were our selectors: musicians, music writers, radio hosts, festival organizers — people who shape Calgary’s music culture every day. Local artists, along with some of the stars of the project, dropped by: Ghost Factory, Napalmpom, Sargeant X Comrade, and even Al Muirhead.
A music party obviously needs music. Ghostkeeper and Kue Varo delivered intimate acoustic sets, each bringing their own flavour. Ghostkeeper — this time just Shane Ghostkeeper and Sarah Houle — performed some pieces exploring identity and cultural memory. The set felt experimental and a little hypnotizing, complete with surprising found instruments (a jar of coins, a seed shaker, and metal finger caps). Kue Varo leaned into a rock sound with her smoky vocals and what Varo calls a “desert flair.” Bob Quaschnick floated between guitar and harmonica, adding colour.
Our editor, Nathan Iles, closed the official portion with a speech and a toast to Calgary’s music and music makers. And together, we raised a glass.
