Kings of Crownsville

Annapolis-based act Kings of Crownsville are a roots Rock band with a New Orleans flavor.

The brainchild of New Orleans-raised guitarist/singer/songwriter Steve Johnson, the Kings play a rollicking, entertaining set that stirs Americana, Blues, and Jazz

into their mix of Johnson’s witty original tunes as well as a few well-chosen covers with a hint of Louisiana spice.

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.

“Homegrown Americana boogie blues and big band rockin’ swing jazz is a chunky description of the Kings … a robust, polished sound that makes for easy toe-tapping and dancing.”

Stephen Perraud. The Live Wire. June 2011