Music in the Chapel: LAAMAR

The Music in the Chapel series showcases an eclectic range of performers and local musicians. Immerse yourself in the acoustic and visual charms of Lakewood’s historic Memorial Chapel as we welcome LAAMAR for this special performance.

LAAMAR is the latest project led by Minneapolis-based singer, songwriter, saxophonist, and composer Geoffrey Lamar Wilson. Former frontman of Brooklyn-based Jus Post Bellum, Wilson is also known for his multilayered looped saxophone performances and catchy podcast ditties (Terrible, Thanks for Asking). On the band’s debut EP “Flowers,” Wilson blends his idiomatic inspirations bridging folk, soul, R&B, and country with a constant ear toward racial and social justice issues and the shared human experience.

“In the EP’s deceptively sweet and warm title track, he relays a memory of his mother ‘lighting candles and putting flowers on the boulevard’ in memory of another dead man of color. In the standout track getting airplay on the Current, “Home to My Baby,” he relays his personal fears of getting pulled over by police,” writes Chris Riemenschneider of the Star Tribune.

Recent acclaim for LAAMAR includes debut single “Home to My Baby” being named KAXE’s “Best Song” of 2023 and a nod as one of First Avenue’s Best New Bands.

“With Flowers,” writes Malachy Koons of KAXE, “LAAMAR has crafted a stunning debut that does not shy away from difficult topics. The new EP features four instantly catchy songs, with each taking a different approach to issues of racial and social justice.”

The band is working with Nat Harvie (Low, Cole Pulice) on their debut full length, to be released in 2025.

This event takes place in the beautiful and historic Lakewood Memorial Chapel. This stunning building was built in 1910 by architect Harry Wild Jones and is modeled after the Hagia Sofia in Istanbul. It is one of the only examples of Byzantine style chapels in the US, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Click here for more information on the Lakewood Memorial Chapel.

Signs will be posted directing you to the event location or click here for GPS navigation through Google Maps.

Questions? Call the Lakewood events line at 612-540-5165 or email [email protected].

Yes, all ages are welcome.

Arrive any time after 2 PM before the 3 PM show. Doors open at 2 PM to allow guests ample time to enjoy the art and architecture of Lakewood’s historic Memorial Chapel.

No, printed tickets are not required and you do not need to use the Eventbrite app. We will have a guest list at the door.

Free parking is available along roads inside the cemetery, including reserved spaces for handicap parking near the chapel. There is a Metro Transit bus stop just outside of Lakewood’s front gates at 36th & Hennepin Ave. It is within walking distance from the chapel (1-2 blocks). If you come by bicycle, use the bike racks near the cemetery’s main gates.

Due to the historic nature of this venue, there are limited accessibility accommodations that can be made. Accessibility notices are below:

Parking: Reserved accessible parking spots are available near the Chapel’s entrance, which has a ramp to the front door.

Seating: All seating is in fixed pews with cushions. Behind the pews, there is space for wheelchairs, but it is limited.

Restrooms: Two single-occupancy washrooms are available on the main level. The chapel’s accessible restroom is located on the lower level. Because there is no elevator and the spiral staircase is not accessible for all guests, one can access the lower restroom from behind the building. Please ask staff for assistance with wayfinding.

We apologize for these inconveniences. While we strive to be welcoming to all, there are limitations within this historic space. If you have further concerns about accessibility, please call us at 612-540-5165 or email [email protected].

There is a coat rack available, and you may bring a water bottle. (There is a water dispenser available inside the building, too.) Please do not bring pets, food or drinks other than water.

Host or Publisher Lakewood Cemetery