With a barroom soul and a deep love for the Annapolis arts scene, Dean’s performances are steeped in experience, authenticity, and storytelling. He holds a unique place in local music history as the first artist ever to perform at Rams Head On Stage, helping to launch what would become one of Annapolis’s most beloved venues. How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before? “I call it American roots—it pulls from blues, rockabilly, country, and anything born from American music traditions. I’m a barroom guitar player at heart.” Favorite venue in Annapolis? “49 West because it's a nice little small listening room.” A local act you’d love to collaborate with? “There are too many to name—but I’ve always loved the diversity of this scene. It’s full of great players and even better people.” What do you love most about the Annapolis music scene? “No cutthroats here. It’s collaborative, creative, and welcoming. That’s rare. There are so many places to play in Annapolis, and that’s why I stayed here all these years. Everyone’s friendly. It’s a real community.” How did you get involved in the Annapolis music scene? “I was born in Annapolis, started playing at The Docks in the '70s, and never left. Music here is part of who I am.” What’s your goal with your music? “To keep playing, connecting with people, and being part of this local scene.”
Laura Brino. Photo Credit: Danielle Lawrance of DANIE Photography
LAURA BRINO: FOLK-POP STORYTELLING WITH HEART About the Artist Laura Brino blends indie folk-pop with heartfelt lyrics and introspective themes—what she lovingly calls “mom pop.” With six studio albums under her belt and a deeply personal approach to her work, Laura's music resonates with those navigating life’s shifting seasons. How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before? “It’s indie folk-pop—what I call ‘mom pop’ now. The themes are more complex than breakups. It’s grown-up, introspective songwriting.” Favorite venue in Annapolis? “Rams Head On Stage. It’s a true listening room with incredible sound and energy.” Best memory of performing in Annapolis? “ My Cactus Moon album release show at ArtFarm. We screened 13 music videos, my family helped with everything, and my daughter even sang on stage. It was pure joy.” A local act you’d love to collaborate with? “Too many to name, but I’m proud to be a founder of Songbird Collective, which lifts up women and nonbinary artists. My next project continues that mission.” What do you love most about the Annapolis music scene? “The community. It’s grown into something so inclusive and vibrant—artists can truly be themselves here.”
Dean Rosenthal. Photo Credit: Danielle Lawrance of DANIE Photography
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