Annapolis-based act Kings of Crownsville are a roots Rock band with a New Orleans flavor. The brainchild of New Orleans-raised guitarist/singer/songwriterSteve Johnson, the Kings play a rollicking, entertaining set that stirs Americana, Blues, and Jazz into the mix.

Their signature horn section transports listeners to the streets of the Big Easy, while they also add precise three- and four-part harmonies to their musical gumbo. Think Louis Armstrong meets Steely Dan.

The Kings of Crownsville features Johnson backed by Ed Justice on trumpet, flugelhorn and vocals; Jim Tavener on trombone, percussion, and vocals; Mike McCormick on keyboards and vocals; David Vermette on bass and vocals; and Rob Creath behind the drums. Johnson's songs are destined to become classics.

This free concert is sponsored by Germano's in celebration of the Little Italy Madonnari Arts Festival. Seats in the Cabaret at Germano's are available for dining patrons.

"Homegrown Americana boogie blues and big band rockin' swing jazz is a chunky description of the Kings. The 6-piece band lends guitar, bass, drums, piano, trumpet, trombone, and vocal harmony. The result is a robust, polished sound that makes for easy toe-tapping and dancing."

Stephen Perraud. The Live Wire. June 2011