Calgary fans were able to get up close to some of Canada's new and heavyweight rock and country talent this weekend; who are up for 2008 Juno Nominations.

Juno FanFare
April 5^th 2008
By: Kindah Mardam Bey 

Calgary fans were able to get up close to some of Canada's new and heavyweight rock and country talent up for nominations this 2008 Junos weekend. A bounty of talent came out to the University Of Calgary campus and setup shop in the Olympic Oval which was originally built for the 1988 Games.  

The event was presented by SIRIUS Satellite Radio, with Aaron Lines, Bedouin Soundclash, Belly, Faber Drive, Finger Eleven, Gord Bamford, Hedley, illScarlett, Jeremy Fisher, Jill Barber, Joel Plaskett, Johnny Reid, Jully Black, Marianas Trench, Serena Ryder, Shane Yellowbird, State of Shock and Theory of a Deadman on hand to meet fans, sign autographs and stand for photo opportunities.

Much Music was on hand with Leah Miller and Matt Babel setting about their usual drivel-induced banter and some semblance of interviews on a stage were to be had. Some major prizes were handed out as some people won guitars and others won free trips away. The odds were very high for winning prizes, meeting your favourite artists, and having your picture taken with them as the audience amassed around the two-thousand mark. The Oval is a huge space and with great bands on hand like Hedley, Bedouin Soundclash and Theory Of A Deadman, it was a surprise the Oval wasn't packed with eager fans, especially because the event was free.

The Juno Fanfare also showcased Danier's official gift bag of the Junos, an opportunity to dress up like a rock star and get the picture online with a travel pack from West Jet, a ‘Pose Like You Are A Star' photo area and of course, HMV selling albums of the artists at the event.  

The artists were great, as they seemed excited to be a part of the Junos festivities and were pleased to be meeting their fans. When the Junos comes to your town, it might be a good idea to search this event out, as you are quite possibly guaranteed to meet you favourite performer on the roster.