Now a world known tradition, Dean Guitars once again rolls out the red carpet for the brotherhood of guitar players known only as the Dean Owners of America (D.O.A.). No expense was spared in this fever-pitched weekend of 5-Star food, spirits and friends. Truly, these occasions are a fast becoming the highlight of the year for Music's most passionate alumni.

The first night was held at the world famed Kapok Special Events center in Clearwater, Florida. Truly a five star venue, the party kicked off sharply at seven with Dean Guitar's own Pat Baker and his band, "Anita Brunette" . Belting out classic rock for all, this was really a treat not to be missed . Michael Angelo Batio, voted the #1 Shredder of ALL TIME, honored us next by playing a mind-blowing set of his compositions, showcasing his technical and innovative prowess on the fretboard. Seeing Michael play his famed " Dean Mach 7- Jet Double" is simply put, awesome!

A lot has happend over the past year, most notably with the passing of legendary rocker, "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott. His presence was certainly felt as a video collage played live footage of Dime in private and public moments dating all the way back to his early days. Dime's girlfriend and partner since third grade, Rita, attended and a toast was initiated by Dean owner Elliott Rubinson and Rita both. All attendees payed homage to Darrell with each member drinking a shot(or three) of his favorite drink, the Black Tooth Grin; a double shot of Crown Royal with just a splash of Coke. DOA members also had the opportunity to view the Dimebag Darrell interview which is set to debut here on Mon, Feb 28th.

Members of the DOA trekked up to the stage afterwards with note a special cover of Van Halen's "Panama" from "Dimebag Joe (vanilla gorilla)" and DOA prez "Brave Dave". This was rich! DOA members intermingled and jammed though the night with UFO covers from Bad Karma and Brave Dave once again. DOA alum "Thor" also plowed through the sound barrier with his shred tactics. Swamp Metal ass kickers PARABELLUM rocked out in a very heavy and very original original composition to top off the night. This was really good. You can check them out here: Parabellum

Now, just when you thought you had seen it all, Dean Zelinksky himself and Dean Owner Elliott Rubinson joined forces with Pat Baker in a cover of "Going Down". Seeing Elliott and Dean hammer down on this classic was nothing short of primo. You had to see it to beleive it! It was absolutely cool. Who and what other guitar company does this? (They don't exist anywhere else.)

The next afternoon was held at the upgraded Dean World Headquarters located now in Tampa, Florida. The day consisted of guitar ogling, autographs, a facility tour, giveaways, surprizes, a vintage Dean exhibit, and a chance to see and purchase new & vintage Deans. The highlight of the day included the revealing of the 2004 Limited Edition DOA ML.