Alumni Anthony Gragnano plays the guitar, sings, shouts, writes and sometimes blows in the harmonica for his band, “The Lazy Dangers”.

“As for Anthony’s strengths, he’s a gifted songwriter and has a vast knowledge of accomplished singers and songwriters,” said Don Kroeller. “He’s quite talented at drawing inspiration from many other greats.”

Anthony has always loved music; even in his pre-kindergarten days he has memories of playing the imaginary guitar while making his toys his band.

“In high school, I finally picked up the guitar, learned the power and beauty of self-expression, and the rest is obscure history,” said Gragnano. 

The band is made up of six people and they have a rowdy folk style of music. 

“Garage Folk sing-along jams to dance the night away to. Music to help get you through the feels,” said Gragnano.

The Lazy Dangers began in 2015 as a guitar and kazoo duo with another alumni of Ocean Lakes, Allyson Keck. They started playing when they lived in Louisiana and traveled as far west as Texas. Then they moved back to Virginia and added drums, electric guitars, bass and more. 

“We’ve been playing shows as a full six-piece, occasionally seven-piece, and once eight-piece, since 2017,” said Gragnano.

Many teachers encouraged Gragnano’s writing when he was a student, including English teacher Don Kroeller. 

“Mr. Kroeller was certainly the first person to ever write up a review of a demo I made. Knowing that he has a background in music journalism and took the time to do that was always very encouraging and just generally awesome,” said Gragnano.

Kroeller introduced Gragnano to bands like “The Replacements” and “The Waterboys” which ended up influencing ‘The Lazy Dangers’ music.

“I’ve seen Anthony grow as a singer, as he continues to improve his craft, and I’ve also seen him expand his sound, infusing Americana, folk, country and elements of 80’s pop,” said Kroeller.