If you remember our profile of Jeremy Messersmith last year upon the release of his breakthrough album "The Reluctant Graveyard," you'll probably recall that it really was influenced by a graveyard -- Minneapolis' Pioneers & Soldiers Cemetery, to be exact. The otherwise non-morbid singer/songwriter lives near the historic plot of plots on East Lake Street and would stroll through it for solace and inspiration while writing the record. One song, "Toussaint Grey, First in Life and Death," was even named for one of the graveyard's most notable residents, believed to be the first African American child born in Minneapolis.
Since the end results were good to Messersmith, it's probably only fitting for him to pay back his muse. He will do so Oct. 8 at 2 p.m. with what should be one of the most memorable concerts of the year, taking place right there in Pioneers & Soldiers Cemetery and benefitting its preservation. Lucy Michelle & the Velvet Lapelles will also perform. Tickets ($12) go on sale today at the Electric Fetus, Treehouse Records and Hymie's Records and should be available online here soon. Kids 12 & under can get in free. Because what young kid doesn't love playing in cemeteries?
