The Calgary Stampede kicked off with a loaded Coke Stage line-up, featuring BC's Theory of a Deadman on Friday July 9th. The field was packed with people as singer Tyler Connolly, guitarist Dave Brenner, bassist Dean Back and drummer Joey Dandeneau opened the show with Little Smirk off their 2008 album, Scars & Souvenirs.

The band has built a following through their three albums, (including 2002's self-titled album, and 2005's Gasoline) and they were well represented. The crowd jumped up and down to songs like No Surprise and Since You've Been Gone. Especially well received were Scars & Souvenirs songs By The Way, So Happy, Hate My Life and finale Bad Girlfriend.

Theory of a Deadman continues as one of the hardest working bands in Canada. Their show has become polished after tours with bands like Motley Crue, Hinder, Daughtry.  After a year and a half away, they were welcomed with open arms.

Less Fan Interaction

Fans who hoped to meet the band afterwards were instead met with disappointment. There was a time, if you were lucky and patient, that you could meet your favourite Coke Stage artists post-show behind the stage - I've met Serena Ryder, Eve 6, and the Tea Party at shows in that exact manner. There is now a 10-foot high wooden fence blocking off the backstage area, preventing bands who want to interact with fans from doing so.

On The Grounds

The Calgary Stampede is the land of the deep fried: Wisconsin Cheese, jelly beans, corn dogs and many other foods are dipped in batter and fried up for the hungry attendees. For my first night on the grounds I went with tradition - corn dog and an ice cold root beer: the perfect Stampede meal.