“He was totally like the (Andy) Kaufman of the bunch, you know what I mean?” Chad Van Gaalen, speaking with the National Post about Chris Reimer, guitarist of Calgarian art rock band, Women, however pointedly, expressed. 

Reimer, who died in his sleep on Tuesday from unknown causes (although he was recently diagnosed with both heart arrhythmia and sleep apnea) had a multitudinous presence in the Canadian art community. 

Van Gaalen, who helped the band record 2008’s self-titled album in his basement using no less than ghettoblasters and tape machines said: “He definitely pushed me as an artist. . . He inspired me.” 

The band found great success shortly after releasing their first record, with recognition from media heavyweights like Pitchfork (who named their single “Black Rice” #18 on their best tracks of 2008 list). This resulted in massive touring and, later, a 2010 record, Public Strain. Still, following a rumoured onstage spat, for the past year and a half, the band have been on hiatus. 

But Reimer had kept busy. He himself toured with The Dodos and Neko Case (even appearing on Jimmy Fallon), and focused on his solo work.  There are rumours that massive amounts of his unreleased experimental work will see a post-mortem release. A recording of a solo set he played on February 8th at Calgary’s Weeds Cafe, recorded by Brad Hawkins, has been released by Aaron Leaney. 

Wednesday night at Broken City in Calgary, there was an impromptu tribute held. A memorial service is planned for the future. In the meantime, Reimer’s sister Nikki has started a blog where family, friends and fans can share their stories. 

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Jessica Carroll is the Toronto Standard’s editorial assistant. Follow her on Twitter at @jssckr.

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