The quintessential troubled artist, Brannan first gained attention getting naked in the film Shortbus, but the gay singer deserves attention now for his music, nearly as naked as he was on film. It's sparse, stripped down to acoustic guitar, occasional bass and occasional piano, keeping you focused on the lyrics and his sweet Paul Simon-esque tenor. His audacious and compelling debut album goddamned was one of last year’s best releases, and In Living Color is a fetching set of seven covers of songs, from the likes of Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell and the Cranberries, plus two originals that are every bit as strong. He covers Ani DiFranco’s “Both Hands” on the new set. The same night DiFranco performs in Baltimore, he’ll be downstate. We argue for heading to the state capital, because Brannan is captivating live. Thursday, July 9, at 8 p.m. Rams Head On Stage, 33 West St., Annapolis. Tickets are $13.50. Call 410-268-4545 or visit www.ramsheadonstage.com.