For over 20 years, Blues Attack has been an integral part of the Pittsburgh blues scene. Originally fronted by the amazing Jill West, Blues Attack has played around the country and were the third place winners of the International Blues Challenge in 2005. Although we have lost our friend Jill, Blues Attack is carrying on. The core trio of Gregg Krupa on guitar and vocals, Hank Raffetto on bass, and Nicky ‘No Shoes’ on drums remains in place (also known as the Bo’Hog Brothers) and has been joined by the talented ‘Big Sexy’ Jack Sanso on harmonica and vocals and rhythm guitar player Jimmy ‘MG’ Tassone. The band has won the Pittsburgh Blues Challenge a total of 5 times and Gregg Krupa is a two time winner of the best blues guitar player award from the Blues Society of Western Pennsylvania.

When Jeremy Pinnell releasedOH/KYin the summer of 2015 to stunned acclaim, it felt like an entire career compressed into one knock-out album. Hailed as, a “Mind-blowingly good” (Greg Vandy/KEXP) “ ”tutorial on classic country music” (Popmatters), Pinnell’s debut immediately differentiated as authentic and unflinching. Dogged touring through Europe and the States and celebrated radio sessions followed, cementing Pinnell’s position as a no-fuss master of his craft.

His 2017 album,Ties of Blood and Affectionpresented a canny lateral move. Instead of doubling down on the stark themes and values of his debut, the sophomore album found Pinnell finding comfort in his own skin, achieving the redemption only hinted at in his previous batch of haunted songs.

If the third time’s a charm, Pinnell is all shine and sparkle onGoodbye LA. Produced by Texan Jonathan Tyler, the tunes buff the wax and polish the chrome on Country music’s deeper roots. Rooted in his steady acoustic guitar,Pinnell’s songs are shot through with honest and classic elements. The rhythm section, all snap and shuffle, finds purpose in well-worn paths. The pedal steel and Telecaster stingers arrive perfectly on cue, winking at JP’s world-wise couplets . Here slippery organ insinuates gospel into the conversation. You can feel the room breathe and get a sense of these musicians eyeballing each other as their performances are committed to tape. And through it all comes this oaken identity, the devastating centerpiece of his work. Honest and careworn, Jeremy’s voice can touch on wry, jubilant, and debauched – all in a single line.At his best, Jeremy Pinnell chronicles the joy and sorrow of being human, which is the best that anyone could do.

Our good buddy Seth Verba will be the host of our open mic nite.

ALL INQUIRIES email [email protected]

-Property open at 5pm.
-Sign up starts at 5:30
-Music 6pm-8pm
-NO DRUMSETS – Hand drums/percussion ok.
-No foul language or content. We love our family environment.

theCAUSE is a band consisting of 5 Pittsburgh musicians who have all been around the proverbial block.  Playing tunes from Grateful Dead, Phish, The Beatles, Bob Dylan and MORE, including some very tasty originals, theCAUSE packs a punch while still paying close attention to the delicate touch. The players are Eric “Pappy” Weingrad on guitar and vocals (Double Dose, Pappy’s Blues Junction), David Tauberg on bass and vocals (Powers Run Band, Hard to Handle, Cherylann Hawk),  Mike South on drums (Left for Dead, Sticky, West Park Road) and, joining us in 2008, Pittsburgh blues veteran Jill Paone Simmons brings a whole new dimension to theCAUSE on vocals and continues to rock with us today. Jill also fronts the all-female Dead band Brown Eyed Women .  Michael Cerveris is our permanent part time member playing keyboards (when he doesn’t have commitments with his other great band the Sun Champs)

 theCAUSE also has had the pleasure in 2012 and 2014 of having  guitarist Steve Kimock join us on stage and in 2013, 2015 ,2016 ,2017, 2018,2019, 2022 and 2023 Jeff Mattson of Dark Star Orchestra spent an evening jamming with theCAUSE! Lisa Ann Mackey from Dark Star Orchestra sang with us in 2017 ,2018, 2019, 2022 and 2023

We are beginning the practice of performing an annual show where we pick a Grateful Dead concert from 1965-1995 and attempt to recreate the entire setlist.  This has, of course been done by countless Grateful Dead cover bands, and we figured once a year would be just fine for us.  These shows will be announced about a week or two before the performance and, in true fashion, the show’s original date will not be announced until we finish playing it (or someone guesses correctly while we’re playing!)
Also, you will see theCAUSE appear as REUBEN’S PAINTED MANDOLIN once or twice a year.  When we announce a show under this monicker, prepare yourself for a full evening of material from the JERRY GARCIA BAND repertoire.  It’s always a great time.

Big Rail Brewing is honored to present The Clarks, live in concert, August 3rd, 2024 at 7pm on our stage in the woods! Get ready for an unforgettable evening with one of Pittsburgh’s most widely renowned rock bands, in a beautiful rustic venue tucked away in the western Pennsylvania forest. With special guest opener The Alyssa Hankey Band.

About The Clarks

The four original Clarks members, Scott Blasey (vocals, acoustic guitar), Rob James (6 and 12-string electric guitars, vocals), Greg Joseph (bass, vocals) and David Minarik (drums, vocals) first met while students at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) in the late ’80s.

With a highlight reel that includes the Late Show with David Letterman, The Simpsons, and others, The Clarks are enjoying their time together as a band now more than ever. “It’s one big extended family,” says guitarist Rob James. “Dave’s son Noah plays on our albums, and with us live, so saying that isn’t just a metaphor, it’s fact!”

Singing and playing new songs from the band’s 2022 EP Tracks and their 2018 full-length Madly In Love At The End Of The World has rekindled a fire in The Clarks’ sometimes broken, sometimes mended hearts.

Visit The Clarks’ Web Site >>

Need Lodging?

Upgrade your concert experience by booking a room at our partner hotels to receive FREE shuttle service! Discount rate, free breakfast, and best of all, shuttle to and from the show for a safe and easy night out!

View lodging options here (clicking takes you to the appropriate partner site):

Big Rail Brewing Concert 8/3 – Hampton Inn & Suites >>

Big Rail Brewing Concert 8/3 – Holiday Inn Express >>

Agenda

4:00pm – Big Rail Tap Room Opens / Early Check-in Begins

Because of the size of this event, **just for today** we’ll be requiring all visiting patrons to have or purchase a ticket to be on-site. Once you’ve checked in and received a wrist band, you can hang out and have a pint in the tap room & back patio area until the beer garden gates open.

5:30 PM – Beer Garden Gates open for ticket holders

If you’ve checked in and received a wrist band you’ll be able to freely enter & exit the beer garden / venue area starting at 5:30pm.

7:00 PM – Let the Show Begin

The Alyssa Hankey Band opens, followed by The Clarks

Please read the FAQ page for more information on Big Rail’s concerts.

Andrew Bicsey is a guitarist, singer-songwriter from Pittsburgh, PA. After starting his musical journey by studying nylon string guitar under Jim Relja and later with Ken Karsh at Duquesne University, Andrew quickly grew his knack for solo work and improvisation. Instructing guitar lessons since 2006, Andrew brings a deep understanding of his instrument to the table, being able to understand what music your special moment needs and leaving patrons musically fulfilled yet wanting more. In addition to his solo work, he performs with two other wedding/event bands: The Company Band and Bachelor Boys. He has also performed with the likes of Randall Troy, Alli Gillis, Larry Lee Jones, Jill West and most notably Margot Bingham of Boardwalk Empire fame.

Christopher Seymore is a hillbilly poet, from the rolling pine-covered hills of upstate South Carolina, making down-home honky-tonk music in Houston, TX. Raised on a rich heritage of old-time and honest-to-goodness country, Seymore draws his influences from the solid whiskey soaked standards of the golden era. As the founder of Houston’s popular Horni Tonk Tuesday residency, Seymore is quickly on the rise within the independent Texas Country scene. Christopher Seymore and his band, The Western Cosplay, can be found playing dancehall dusters and saloon tunes in any roadside dive or dodgey juke joint near-ish to you.

Dan Bubien & the Delta Struts put a contemporary spin on soulful roots music. Driven by the dynamic guitar playing duo of Shawn Mazzei and Dan Bubien, along with Bubien’s soulful gritty vocals. Their signature sound is highlighted by the precision playing and deep toned-full sound of drummer Mark Pollera and glued together by Christian Caputo’s steady, groove oriented bass playing.  They are set to release their first studio album together as a band in early spring of 2019 and Dan’s 3rd album in the past 5 years.

Dan Bubien is a singer/songwriter/guitarist born and raised in the small steel town of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania. This rust belt town Northwest of Pittsburgh, has been the launching pad for a career that spans over two decades now culminating with his current band The Delta Struts.

Dan’s professional career began in his mid-teens working along side veteran musicians on the local and regional club circuit of Southwest PA. Along the way, Dan founded and recorded with The Sun Kings  releasing Rub It In (2006) while continuing to hone his skills as a front man and songwriter. As a solo artist, Dan released “Empty Roads” in 2013 with the help of four-time Grammy Award Winning Producer/Engineer Jay Dudt of Audible Images Studios. Capitalizing on his previous success with “Empty Roads”, Dan released his second solo album in August of 2016 entitled “Grinding These Gears”. Self-produced and recorded by legendary Pittsburgh musician Joe Munroe “Grinding These Gears” achieved critical acclaim and charted on the Blues/Rock and World Wide blues album charts respectively.

Fast forward to 2017 and the newest incarnation of Dan’s vision has culminated in the creation of Dan Bubien and The Delta Struts. Gritty and honest, yet always soulful one might think this band hails from a place much further south than the suburbs of northwest Pittsburgh. Dan is constantly refining and redefining his craft using a wide palette of tones and textures, sounds and styles, that express a heart-felt love of all things music. Rooted in soul, and versed in a style that harkens back to the days of a classic STAX recording, Dan Bubien and The Delta Struts consistently break new ground with an eclectic spin on the collective music they make. Backed by the stellar guitar playing of Shawn Mazzei and anchored by rhythm section veterans Mark Pollera (Drums) and Christian Caputo (Bass) The Delta Struts chart a course that begins and ends with the music always being the first priority. After spending much of 2018 recording what was to become “Thieves and Yesterdays” Dan Bubien and The Delta Struts plan on a release date of February 1^st and a tour starting in Nashville at the end of March. Check our website for up to date information and reviews about “Thieves and Yesterday’s” as well as updates from the road beginning in March.

A five piece puzzle. An audible scavenger hunt. Picking up clues from state to state. Acoustic. Leading towards a greater growth. Maybe a Grown. Fiddle. Climbing Magazine called it “Rowdy Americana.” Sure. Rowdy Americana. Electric. Where left could be right and right could be the other way. Upright. All points leading somewhere. You’ll know once you arrive. Drums. A wild and unpredictable musical adventure that will lead you to places you ain’t been yet.

The Widely Grown boys are known for their energetic live performances that contain their unique blend of rock, country, grass and soul. 2023 saw them travelin’ again, performing at the Barefoot Country Music Festival, Maplewoodstock, touring through 6 states and performing for the legendary throw down at Miguels Pizza celebration in Kentucky. Their DIY ethic and independent spirit has been a key fundamental to their growing success.

Their 2nd release, a forthcoming EP, will be released in 2024.

Our good buddy Seth Verba will be the host of our open mic nite.

ALL INQUIRIES email [email protected]

-Property open at 5pm.
-Sign up starts at 5:30
-Music 6pm-8pm
-NO DRUMSETS – Hand drums/percussion ok.
-No foul language or content. We love our family environment.

Formed in 2016, Smilo and the Ghost have been delivering hard-driving, old-time influenced folk-rock to crowds around the Northeast. Their debut album, Ghost Writers, was voted one of the “Top Three Albums of 2018” by the Erie Reader. Since then, Smilo and the Ghost have opened for national acts like Grammy Award Winning country duo Dan + Shay and alt-rock legends 10,000 Maniacs. 

The band’s recording and performing personnel have included a “who’s who” of regional talent, currently condensed down to the core lineup: 

Tyler Smilo – Guitar, Vocals

Adam McKillip – Mandolin, Vocals 

Jassen Wilber – Bass Guitar

Dominick DeCecco- Banjo, Vocals

Smilo’s emotionally charged lyrics and vocals are backed up by the virtuosity of Wilber (who has toured the world with American blues guitarist Bernard Allison) and McKillip. Their setlist moves between gritty, hard-luck foot stompers like “Nothing’s Changed” and “Big Guns” to triumphant ballads like “Save Me” and “There’s Nothing Left.” All of which are highlights of Smilo & the Ghost live shows. The band’s songs share Americana country/rock DNA with Trampled by Turtles, Dawes, and Ryan Bingham, while maintaining a voice all their own. The recent addition of DeCecco on banjo has allowed for a deeper exploration of the band’s bluegrass and country chops. These old-timey roots are on full display in their  highly-anticipated album, Fingers Crossed and Godspeed, which has been selected as one of Erie Reader’s “Top Three Albums of 2021.”  The band isn’t sitting still, though, also recording a live album in early 2022. Smilo and the Ghost combine songs meant for singing and dancing with charismatic, high-energy performing on stage. They’re as comfortable on the main stage as they are in the corner of a local bar and shouldn’t be missed at either venue.

“This band is therapy for me to bring myself back to being a better person, and I hope people come along with me,” says powerhouse singer Clinton Clegg of The Commonheart. The testimonial begins on August 16th when the 9-piece band issues its most potent and purposeful dose of grittily redemptive rock n’ soul, its sophomore album, Pressure (Jullian Records).

Clinton didn’t grow up in a Baptist church, and his soul machine of a band isn’t pushing religion. Live and in the studio, the Pittsburgh-based collective is offering feel-good positivity, Golden Rule messaging, and sweat-soaked performances that nimbly ease through blues, vintage soul, and rock.

The nonet is bonded by familial-like ties and a desire to foster spiritual uplift. Among its ranks are female backup singers, drums, bass, guitar, a horn section, and keyboards. Out front is Clinton, a lightning bolt charismatic front man with dynamically expressive pipes that effortlessly traverse bluesy pleading, and honeyed balladeering. Onstage and in the studio, Clinton evokes B.B. King, Al Green, Otis Redding, and Sam Cooke.

The Commonheart is known to have transformative powers. Case in point is the band’s own singer. During one gig, while singing “Do Right” from Pressure, Clinton experienced a revelation.

“Seeing the audience’s reaction to the positivity in that song made me feel like I was giving them something they may need.” He pauses thoughtfully, and then continues: “You know blues music is sad as hell, but it makes you feel good. I thought maybe my bad stories could make people feel good, and I could bring a little bit of love to the show.”

Previously, Clinton was in an eclectic indie band searching for some semblance of artistic focus. He had grown up loving B.B. King and soul music, and recognized the strength of his raspy emotive voice. After some soul searching, he and that band’s drummer decided to do a back-to-basics band centered around Clinton’s singing and a vintage R&B-informed aesthetic. At first the band’s name was a casual variant of The Commonwealth, as in “The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” but the moniker later accrued significance as the band began to explore the pent-emotionality inherent in its gospel-tinged tunes.

The Commonheart’s latest album, Pressure, is both rugged and refined. The 10-song album showcases raw-nerve soul musicianship pristinely recorded. The opening track boasts soulful sandpaper-y lead vocals, swoops of cosmic slide guitar, a driving Sly Stone groove, and rousing female backup vocals. It’s an up-against-a-wall tune about making a living while raising a family, and it speaks to the album’s title. The bluesy ballad title track, replete with pleading emotive vocals, drips yearning and melancholy redemption. “That’s about the daily grind—what it takes to maintain important relationships while you’re away from home, driving thousands of miles in van to pursue a dream,” Clinton confesses.

A spirit of a new-day optimism courses through the aptly titled “Different Man.” The song soars with stirring group backup vocals punctuated by Clinton’s vulnerable confessions. It’s a rousing and uplifting slice of R&B brimming with warm organs, clipped soul-guitar chanks, and triumphant horn melodies. “That song is about begging for a second chance, and building something beautiful after a sordid past,” Clinton reveals.

Pressure is an album by a band on a mission. “We are willing to take risks and to go at any lengths for this band,” Clinton says affirmatively. “We are ready to spread positivity and make a stretch of this thing.”

Need Lodging?

Upgrade your concert experience by booking a room at our partner hotels to receive FREE shuttle service! Discount rate, free breakfast, and best of all, shuttle to and from the show for a safe and easy night out! Clicking these links takes you right to the appropriate partner’s web site for this event:

• Big Rail Brewing Concert 8/17 – Hampton Inn & Suites
• Big Rail Brewing Concert 8/17 – Holiday Inn Express

Toms launched his musical career in 1987 as lead guitarist of Pittsburgh’s legendary band Joe Grushecky and The Houserockers, During that period, he opened for and played with such legendary names as The Band, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Little Feat, and Stevie Ray Vaughn. While playing guitar, co-writing, and adding backup vocals for the Houserockers, Toms and the band recorded six studio albums and one live concert album. In 1995, The Houserockers released American Babylon, which was recorded and produced by Springsteen himself.

As a solo artist, Toms has opened for the likes of Buddy Guy, Levon Helm, Marshall Crenshaw, , Steve Forbert, and Dan Baird.
He’s plotting a string of regional east coast dates to support “Keep Movin’ On”, as well as a full European tour in 2022.

Tipping our hat to the roots of blues rock.

Western PA’s western swing sensation, led by the inimitable Charlie Barath.

Our good buddy Seth Verba will be the host of our open mic nite.

ALL INQUIRIES email [email protected]

-Property open at 5pm.
-Sign up starts at 5:30
-Music 6pm-8pm
-NO DRUMSETS – Hand drums/percussion ok.
-No foul language or content. We love our family environment.

90s alternative & grunge tribute band

Pangs of sweet regret, everybody got ’em
But pangs do not a true assessment make…

These words from “Days Fly Away,” one of 12 new Bill Deasy compositions on the first Gathering Field record in a dozen years, reflect the band’s “don’t look back” attitude.

“I think we all feel this is an opportunity to hear what we sound like right now, not how we sounded way back when,” lead guitarist Dave Brown observes. “This is very much about the present moment.”

One listen to the band’s new release, “Wild Journey,” and the truth of Dave’s statement becomes evident. Yes, there is something familiar there, the indefinable chemistry that hooked a legion of fans the first time around, but there is a new-found depth, a spark of wisdom, a heightened awareness. The result is a sound that is as it was, only more so, and then some.

“As far as I’m concerned, you guys are the biggest thing to come out of Buffalo since chicken wings!”

The Brass Machine is one of the premiere touring acts on the live music circuit today, laying down funky New Orleans-style street beats across the United States and Canada. Formed in 2014 at the University at Buffalo, The Brass Machine provides a unique blend of hip hop, funk, and R&B, all in an infectious and energetic brass-y package. Having performed alongside national acts such as Earth, Wind, and Fire, Starship, The Soul Rebels, Rebirth Brass Band, Bonerama, John Papa Gros, CJ Chenier and more – The Brass Machine is hittin’ the streets HARD.

Led by frontman “Kidd” Kyle Yagielski, the group has been named the best FUNK BAND in Western New York three years in a row by JazzBuffalo, and continues to maintain a robust performance schedule at festivals across the Northeast including Borderland, RailRider, Rochester Jazz Fest, Night Lights, and more! If you want to hear music that’s good for your souls and soles, come party with The Brass Machine!

The Healing Power of Music!

My Story:
I’ve been doing this a long time now… and it has not been easy. In fact, it’s been a wild journey full of extreme ups and downs, highs and lows that I can’t really even explain or begin to digest. It’s been more like a beautiful blur… of amazing people and experiences and sights that goes beyond this world and many of the mundane normal things that we all must endure. It’s been truly spiritual. And I wouldn’t trade a second of it.

My Bio:
I am an american singer-songwriter and have released 9 studio albums, played over 1,000 gigs, traveled all over the country (either with my bands or solo), and my music is heard worldwide on Spotify, Pandora, iTunes, YouTube, and anywhere else music is streamed…

Why:
My mission: To bring peaceful, healing music into the world. I’ve seen firsthand how music can make a difference in people’s lives. How hearing just the right song at just the right time can take someone somewhere else and transport them to a more peaceful, state-of-mind. In my musical journey as both a touring artist and as an internet musician I have seen how this transformation can take place and truly change people’s lives for the better. It can help us overcome the many obstacles of our daily lives, the painful experiences from our past, and the constant grind of our highly ambitious lifestyles. And it can help us have HOPE FOR THE FUTURE!

Sincerely,
-Kev

Brewers: Use the form below to sign up!

General Event Info:

Homebrew Fest go-ers will have a chance to try a wide variety of local home brewed beer from area brewers, and take home a limited edition sampling glass!

• Event takes place September 7th, 2024
• The homebrew tasting event goes from 3pm – 6pm.
• Big Rail will also be open to the public normal hours that day (1pm – 10pm). No tickets will be required to hang out for the day, but you’ll need a ticket to sample the brews.
• Tasting tickets will be $10 (day-of only, no presales). A ticket gets you 3 hours of tasting and a commemorative sampling glass.
• Food Truck – Rando Sando
• Free sweet corn! (While supplies last)
• Entertainment at 6pm – Meeting of Important People / Wine & Spirit

Some details for brewers:

• We’re bringing back the homebrew competition this year! Details & prizes TBA.
• There is no entry fee for brewers and each participating homebrewery will receive a $25 gas card and 2 complimentary sample glasses.
• We’re limiting the event to the first 30 homebreweries who sign up. If you’re not one of the first 30, you’ll be placed on a waiting list in case someone drops out.
• We’ll provide a table and ice for each brewery.
• You’ll need to bring your own pop-up tent and self-contained method of serving beer (jockey box, etc). There will be running water (garden hose) available for cleaning up.

Brewers Sign Up Below!

A co-headline concert featuring two Big Rail favorites to cap off our Homebrew fest!

About Meeting of Important People

Meeting of Important People is a rock-and-roll-band from Pittsburgh, PA., led by songwriter and singer Josh Verbanets, now playing in support of their new 2024 album release ‘MOIPsgiving!’~ the band’s 4th LP.  MOIP is widely known for its spirited live performances over the past two decades, and has gained national acclaim with a body of music showcasing elements of pop, garage-rock, folk influence, and anthemic twists-and-turns.

Two MOIP albums have been selected as WYEP-FM Hometown Releases of the Year (their 2009 self-titled debut, as well as 2016 album TROIKA); the band has starred in a viral cardboard city music video, and has shared the stage with renowned artists such as Ok Go, The Secret Machines, David Bazan, Flamin’ Groovies, Eve6, Dar Williams, and Dean & Britta. Their debut album received vinyl re-release in 2011 by legendary garage label Get Hip, and many MOIP songs have been featured on E’s KEEPING UP WITH THE KARDASHIANS, MTV’s TEEN MOM, THE REAL WORLD, and JERSEY SHORE, and CBS’ THE GHOST WHISPERER, among others– if you listened hard enough.  

MOIP promises to keep the loud parts loud, the pretty parts pretty, and the people happy.

About Wine & Spirit

15 years of rock n roll!
Wine & Spirit‘s 3rd album “Smiley Street” is now available everywhere!

Our good buddy Seth Verba will be the host of our open mic nite.

ALL INQUIRIES email [email protected]

-Property open at 5pm.
-Sign up starts at 5:30
-Music 6pm-8pm
-NO DRUMSETS – Hand drums/percussion ok.
-No foul language or content. We love our family environment.

Tiger Maple String Band is an energetic collection of talented musicians dedicated to continuing traditional and original old-time music. With a home base in Northwest Pennsylvania, a rural setting gives plenty of inspiration towards the continuance of acoustic music. The band features Justine and Alison Parker on fiddle, Barry Smith on banjo and vocals, and Fred Parker on guitar and vocals.

The sound of Tiger Maple String Band has rich historical and cultural values, beautiful harmonies, hot old-time fiddling, and a full-body richness that only acoustic instruments and clear vocals can bring. The band draws its inspiration from a variety of different musical directions, with old-time Appalachian tunes as a central focus. These fiddle tunes, mountain ballads, murder ballads, coal-mining songs, and beautiful originals make up a set that leaves a lasting impression on their audience. Folks walk away with big smiles and good feelings of friendship and love.

A traveling troubadour born and raised in the hills of rural western Pennsylvania. Shaping her signature sound developed from her teenage years, Alyssa’s music is unmistakable. With influences that span across many genres, her lyrics bring you into the heart of the steel mills and the bucolic landscape of rural America.

For the past 14 years, Full Cord Bluegrass has been making a name for themselves blending traditional bluegrass music with jazz, western swing, and rock n’ roll while keeping the traditional bluegrass feel alive and well. These influences make every performance memorable and unique.

Andrew Bicsey is a guitarist, singer-songwriter from Pittsburgh, PA. After starting his musical journey by studying nylon string guitar under Jim Relja and later with Ken Karsh at Duquesne University, Andrew quickly grew his knack for solo work and improvisation. Instructing guitar lessons since 2006, Andrew brings a deep understanding of his instrument to the table, being able to understand what music your special moment needs and leaving patrons musically fulfilled yet wanting more. In addition to his solo work, he performs with two other wedding/event bands: The Company Band and Bachelor Boys. He has also performed with the likes of Randall Troy, Alli Gillis, Larry Lee Jones, Jill West and most notably Margot Bingham of Boardwalk Empire fame.

The Boom Rockets allows three, top, regional musicians to express their love of Rockabilly, Hillbilly, and Surf Instrumentals. Let Levi, Dave, and Jeff transport you to the Rockabilly era!

2024 Smoke, Salt & Blues Fest – full details coming soon!

$5 cover
Music Line-up (times TBD):
✔️Dan Bubien & The Delta Struts
✔️Pierce Dipner Blues Band
✔️Charlie Barath Blues Band
✔️Blues Attack
✔️Lori Russo & The Uppercuts

Blues/rock guitarist Jeff Fetterman delivers the promise to keep the blues alive and well. Influenced by blues greats such as Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and BB King, he plays with a fiery passion that has earned him the nickname “Boss of the Blues”.

“Fetterman is literally unstoppable. The American guitarist and singer/songwriter confirmed once again, through his new album Southern Son, to be one of the most inspired, talented, and versatile blues/rock and funk artists of the current generation. Jeff Fetterman at his absolute best!” Gio Pilato Bluebird reviews

Born and raised in small-town America in Bradford, PA, Jeff began his musical journey at age of 13. Decades later he has received numerous awards for his playing and writing.

Jeff has also received endorsements with Zemaitis guitars and Nicola brand strings. He has played with some of the greatest blues musicians in the business that include Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Ana Popovic, Joe Louis Walker, Jimmy Vaughan, Samantha Fish, Chris Duarte, Steven Stills, and, Robert Randolph.

For Jeff, the end of the road is nowhere near in sight as he continues to play and write music and tour.

Our good buddy Seth Verba will be the host of our open mic nite.

ALL INQUIRIES email [email protected]

-Property open at 5pm.
-Sign up starts at 5:30
-Music 6pm-8pm
-NO DRUMSETS – Hand drums/percussion ok.
-No foul language or content. We love our family environment.

We are an acoustic live music act that plays as a duo or trio, as well as occasional solo shows with founding member Utah Burgess. We also can play full band electrified shows. We play a wide range of cover songs from the last 5 decades of classic rock, country and pop music, as well as our own original music or that of other local area artists. We are not only music performers but entertainers as well, engaging our audiences and making for memorable experiences. And we like beer.

Colin has toured and shared stages with a “Who’s Who” of blues and rock artists including B.B.King, John Mayall,Marshall Crenshaw,Deanna Bogart,Scott Holt,The Outlaws,Long Tall Deb, Michael Hill, Chris Duarte, Everclear, Hubert Sumlin, and many others.

After opening for John Mayall on a multi-island tour of Hawaii in 2001, Colin became enamored of the people, culture and music and moved to the Big Island where he dove into the roots of the blues slide guitar;Hawaiian steel guitar.

Studying the music of past masters and with current proponent Alan Akaka, Colin became proficient on the instrument and continues to utilize it both Live and on recording sessions.

Born from the tradition of Bluegrass jams and potlucks, The Plate Scrapers — Derek Kretzer (banjo), Andrew Jordan (guitar), Robbie Mann (fiddle), Jody Mosser (dobro), and Kevin Johnson (bass) — have been putting in the work and showcasing their love for the genre since 2014. They have since released 3 studio albums, 3 live albums, and have toured relentlessly up and down the east coast and into the midwest. In 2019, they won the Podunk Bluegrass Telefunken Band Contest. They have been featured on WAMU Bluegrass Country Radio, performed as an IBMA Official Showcase artist, and their latest release, Destination Horizon (2020) debuted at #9 on the Bluegrass Album Billboard charts with rave reviews from Bluegrass Today. 

As a band that strives to maintain a healthy equilibrium between their diverse musical backgrounds and the traditional Appalachian sounds, they have wowed audiences across the entire spectrum. This progressively minded Bluegrass act truly feels at home on any stage. They’ve provided direct support for bluegrass legends such as The Seldom Scene, Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen, and Larry Keel. On the other side of that coin, they aren’t afraid to get weird at a late night festival slot and have become well known for their tastefully balanced and refreshingly diverse song-writing. Catch their live show and you’ll be sure to receive a full helping of hard-driving bluegrass favorites and heart-wrenching country ballads. Dig into their recorded originals, however, and you’ll find tracks ranging from thoughtful folk lyricism to gritty tales of harrowing adventure. 

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The Plate Scrapers passion for bluegrass and performing shines thru their music and performances.  Such is evident in their musical prowess and creative chemistry on stage, guaranteeing a unique and immersive experience each time. The band continues to be fueled by loyal fans and an unrelenting drive to continue moving forward…casually.

Dan Bubien & the Delta Struts put a contemporary spin on soulful roots music. Driven by the dynamic guitar playing duo of Shawn Mazzei and Dan Bubien, along with Bubien’s soulful gritty vocals. Their signature sound is highlighted by the precision playing and deep toned-full sound of drummer Mark Pollera and glued together by Christian Caputo’s steady, groove oriented bass playing.  They are set to release their first studio album together as a band in early spring of 2019 and Dan’s 3rd album in the past 5 years.

Dan Bubien is a singer/songwriter/guitarist born and raised in the small steel town of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania. This rust belt town Northwest of Pittsburgh, has been the launching pad for a career that spans over two decades now culminating with his current band The Delta Struts.

Dan’s professional career began in his mid-teens working along side veteran musicians on the local and regional club circuit of Southwest PA. Along the way, Dan founded and recorded with The Sun Kings  releasing Rub It In (2006) while continuing to hone his skills as a front man and songwriter. As a solo artist, Dan released “Empty Roads” in 2013 with the help of four-time Grammy Award Winning Producer/Engineer Jay Dudt of Audible Images Studios. Capitalizing on his previous success with “Empty Roads”, Dan released his second solo album in August of 2016 entitled “Grinding These Gears”. Self-produced and recorded by legendary Pittsburgh musician Joe Munroe “Grinding These Gears” achieved critical acclaim and charted on the Blues/Rock and World Wide blues album charts respectively.

Fast forward to 2017 and the newest incarnation of Dan’s vision has culminated in the creation of Dan Bubien and The Delta Struts. Gritty and honest, yet always soulful one might think this band hails from a place much further south than the suburbs of northwest Pittsburgh. Dan is constantly refining and redefining his craft using a wide palette of tones and textures, sounds and styles, that express a heart-felt love of all things music. Rooted in soul, and versed in a style that harkens back to the days of a classic STAX recording, Dan Bubien and The Delta Struts consistently break new ground with an eclectic spin on the collective music they make. Backed by the stellar guitar playing of Shawn Mazzei and anchored by rhythm section veterans Mark Pollera (Drums) and Christian Caputo (Bass) The Delta Struts chart a course that begins and ends with the music always being the first priority. After spending much of 2018 recording what was to become “Thieves and Yesterdays” Dan Bubien and The Delta Struts plan on a release date of February 1^st and a tour starting in Nashville at the end of March. Check our website for up to date information and reviews about “Thieves and Yesterday’s” as well as updates from the road beginning in March.

Blue Sky is a band that pays tribute to the music of the Allman Brothers Band. Based in Erie, PA

Sunday at the Station was formed in 2009 by Donny Consla (vocals, guitar, and mandolin) and Matt Marr (vocals, banjo, and guitar) in Meadville, PA. The duo, inspired by The Avett Brothers, Doc Watson, Rancid, and Lucero started writing songs and performing locally. Soon, they were joined by Scott Stearns on upright bass and the group’s sound started to take shape. Lastly, Josh Shaffer joined the band on drums and washboard.

Sunday at the Station’s sound has been described as a blend of high-energy Americana, folk, and bluegrass with a touch of punk melody and bluesy soul. The band has been performing in the Tri-state area for over a decade and is always a crowd favorite, providing an entertaining and interactive performance. In the spring of 2022, Sunday at the Station will release their third full length album, “Revival”.

Our good buddy Seth Verba will be the host of our open mic nite.

ALL INQUIRIES email [email protected]

-Property open at 5pm.
-Sign up starts at 5:30
-Music 6pm-8pm
-NO DRUMSETS – Hand drums/percussion ok.
-No foul language or content. We love our family environment.

“A musical stream of consciousness”

Eric Brewer has pursued all aspects of his instrument during his career as a guitarist from electrified rock, to jazz, funk, blues, acoustic, country, classical, and all points in between. His band, Eric Brewer and Friends, consists of bassist Ralph Reitinger, drummer Steve Barone and keyboardist Charlie Meyer. Saxophonist and founding member Joe Cieslak moved to North Carolina in early 2014, and no longer plays with the band. The members have developed a remarkable onstage rapport, propelling the band’s improvisational element to extraordinary heights. The band draws inspiration from a huge list of influences, mixing guitar based rock, jazz, funk and fusion to create a jam band style that is uniquely their own.

Based in Erie PA, the band has performed throughout the region and developed an ever-growing fan base along the way. In keeping with the jam band status quo, the band changes up their set list with each performance, often segueing songs seamlessly to keep the momentum alive and the surprises rolling. The band also displays incredible versatility depending on the venue they’re playing, from a subdued, instrumental-only gig at a small jazz club, to a raucous, rocking set complete with vocals at a large outdoor amphitheatre. At an Eric Brewer & Friends show, expect the unexpected.

Jim Donovan and The Sun King Warriors are best described as a blend of rhythm heavy roots rock, with a strong dose of big barreling drums. Think bluesy Zeppelin-esqe bombast, Santana style percussion with wild Avett Brothers energy.

At a Sun King show, you can expect to dance, sweat and have the time of your life.

The band’s music has garnered radio airplay throughout the US and Canada, and has appeared on Billboard’s Americana chart multiple times.

The band plays regionally at festivals and clubs throughout the mid-atlantic and have opened for 10,000 Maniacs, Donovan’s former band Rusted Root and many others.

Jim Donovan, the band’s founder and writer brings almost three decades of experience to the Sun King Warriors. As a member of the popular 90’s band Rusted Root, he helped shaped the group’s sound and toured with legendary including The Grateful Dead, members of Led Zeppelin, Carlos Santana and the Allman Brothers.

He also co-authored the band’s biggest hit, “Send Me on My Way,” which has been streamed over 100 million times on Spotify and used as the wakeup music for NASA’s Mars rover.

Press quotes:

“Jim Donovan and Sun King Warriors are one of the most eclectic and exciting bands to come out in some time…” -The Washington Times
“Sun King Warriors channel unabashed enthusiasm into a series of songs that are both rowdy and rejuvenating…” -Relix Magazine

We’re having a live performance play at Big Rail! We’ll have the fires lit and blazing as usual! Remember, we’re in the woods for the show, so dress appropriately.

Performance takes place Thursday, October 17 at 7:00 pm in the beer garden on the big stage.

Admission will be $10 to get into the beer garden. The taproom will be open as per usual hours for non-audience members.

Tickets available at the gate or click the ticket link. Proceeds benefit Hob Nob Theater Co. from Butler, PA.

Beer garden will open at 6pm to begin seating and beverage sales. We have picnic tables and limits chairs available. WE HIGHLY RECCOMEND TO BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR.

Remember, this is a live performance, so please keep crowd chatter to a minimum.

In case of bad weather, the rain date will be Oct 24th @ 7pm.

Big Rail Brewing X Sprague Farm!!

*We’re teaming up with Sprague Farm for another concert inside their Beer Hall Pavillion. Big Rail beer selections will be available for purchase.

*$5 cover at the door. All money collected at the door is used to help pay for entertainment costs. No outside alcohol permitted.

*Open at 5pm
*Music starts 6pm
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Uncle Ben’s Remedy

Roots grow deep in fertile soil. The sound of Uncle Ben’s Remedy is rooted in the small towns of western New York, where community still matters and music is a part of every event. The boys learned to play and sing in this small town atmosphere, giving their music the honest, back porch feel of the country music they love. Uncle Ben’s Remedy is Ben Westlund, Harmony Griffin, Shawn Huestis, Brendan O’Connor and Jimmy Royce, playing all sorts of traditional and rock n’ roll instruments and stomping the floors; all while singing their hearts out in service to the song.

Available on iTunes and Google Play and available for streaming on RDIO, Spotify and other outlets, the band released their debut EP “Yesterday’s Clothes” in 2015 and followed by releasing their full length album, “Not Far From the Tree” in April of 2016. Spurred on by local airplay of their single “Fire in the Field” on Buffalo’s Country, Classic Rock, and Alternative stations, UBR quickly sold the first 2500 copies of their record out of their converted school bus, playing every small town and honky-tonk they could find.

UBR won the Summer 2014 Battle of the Bands at the Canalside Concert Series in Buffalo before taking the 2015 Battle of Original Music (BOOM) competition, which landed them a slot at the sold out Kerfuffle on the Lake. In 2017 UBR piled in the bus and hit the festival circuit, including headlining the annual Sportsmen’s Americana Festival and the opening of the Great Blue Heron Music Festival. A finalist in the national Taste of Country Riser contest, UBR brought a huge crowd, filling the venue to capacity with chanting for the band that lasted long after the final notes of their raucous performance.

A traveling troubadour born and raised in the hills of rural western Pennsylvania. Shaping her signature sound developed from her teenage years, Alyssa’s music is unmistakable. With influences that span across many genres, her lyrics bring you into the heart of the steel mills and the bucolic landscape of rural America.

Hailing from the Great Lakes region, Ohayo brings together their diverse experiences and musical backgrounds to create a sound that is both fresh and timeless. The band’s debut album, Now & Later, is a testament to their collaborative spirit and passion for music. Recorded at Moonlight Audio in Columbus, Ohio, the album features a range of styles and influences, from rock’n’roll to country and soul. With their catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and infectious energy, they are a must-see for music lovers everywhere.

Andrew Bicsey is a guitarist, singer-songwriter from Pittsburgh, PA. After starting his musical journey by studying nylon string guitar under Jim Relja and later with Ken Karsh at Duquesne University, Andrew quickly grew his knack for solo work and improvisation. Instructing guitar lessons since 2006, Andrew brings a deep understanding of his instrument to the table, being able to understand what music your special moment needs and leaving patrons musically fulfilled yet wanting more. In addition to his solo work, he performs with two other wedding/event bands: The Company Band and Bachelor Boys. He has also performed with the likes of Randall Troy, Alli Gillis, Larry Lee Jones, Jill West and most notably Margot Bingham of Boardwalk Empire fame.

Our good buddy Seth Verba will be the host of our open mic nite.

ALL INQUIRIES email [email protected]

-Property open at 5pm.
-Sign up starts at 5:30
-Music 6pm-8pm
-NO DRUMSETS – Hand drums/percussion ok.
-No foul language or content. We love our family environment.

theCAUSE is a band consisting of 5 Pittsburgh musicians who have all been around the proverbial block.  Playing tunes from Grateful Dead, Phish, The Beatles, Bob Dylan and MORE, including some very tasty originals, theCAUSE packs a punch while still paying close attention to the delicate touch. The players are Eric “Pappy” Weingrad on guitar and vocals (Double Dose, Pappy’s Blues Junction), David Tauberg on bass and vocals (Powers Run Band, Hard to Handle, Cherylann Hawk),  Mike South on drums (Left for Dead, Sticky, West Park Road) and, joining us in 2008, Pittsburgh blues veteran Jill Paone Simmons brings a whole new dimension to theCAUSE on vocals and continues to rock with us today. Jill also fronts the all-female Dead band Brown Eyed Women .  Michael Cerveris is our permanent part time member playing keyboards (when he doesn’t have commitments with his other great band the Sun Champs)

 theCAUSE also has had the pleasure in 2012 and 2014 of having  guitarist Steve Kimock join us on stage and in 2013, 2015 ,2016 ,2017, 2018,2019, 2022 and 2023 Jeff Mattson of Dark Star Orchestra spent an evening jamming with theCAUSE! Lisa Ann Mackey from Dark Star Orchestra sang with us in 2017 ,2018, 2019, 2022 and 2023

We are beginning the practice of performing an annual show where we pick a Grateful Dead concert from 1965-1995 and attempt to recreate the entire setlist.  This has, of course been done by countless Grateful Dead cover bands, and we figured once a year would be just fine for us.  These shows will be announced about a week or two before the performance and, in true fashion, the show’s original date will not be announced until we finish playing it (or someone guesses correctly while we’re playing!)
Also, you will see theCAUSE appear as REUBEN’S PAINTED MANDOLIN once or twice a year.  When we announce a show under this monicker, prepare yourself for a full evening of material from the JERRY GARCIA BAND repertoire.  It’s always a great time.

Western PA’s western swing sensation, led by the inimitable Charlie Barath.

A traveling troubadour born and raised in the hills of rural western Pennsylvania. Shaping her signature sound developed from her teenage years, Alyssa’s music is unmistakable. With influences that span across many genres, her lyrics bring you into the heart of the steel mills and the bucolic landscape of rural America.

West Park Road is an all acoustic four piece using duet vocals intertwined with violin melody lines backed up by guitar and a unique and entertaining take on percussion. Coming from four very different backgrounds has led to an eclectic mix of music from Simon and Garfunkel to Imagine Dragons, Dolly Parton to Matchbox 20.

We’re an indie folk duo hailing from Johnstown, Pennsylvania. As full time musicians, we perform at a wide variety of special events and locations across Pennsylvania and surrounding states (but we’re always up for traveling further)!

So why did we choose the name, ‘The Evergreens?’ While we do love  Christmas and the smell of cedar, we call ourselves The Evergreens because of the songs we play. We cover hits that have stood the test of time and have never “gone out of season” – much like evergreen trees. We put our own indie/folk twist on hits ranging from the 1950’s-1990’s (with a few modern songs in the mix). This allows us to connect with all people in an audience – young and old. (Example: We’ve rocked the stage at both a 100-year-old and a 3-year-old’s birthday party!) 

DEREK WOODS BAND is an award winning, lyrically driven & timeless Americana/Rock band with a modern polished exterior.
DWB initially formed Los Angeles, California in early 2012, following Solo performances in 2011 by Woods. Later to establish a homebase and core lineup of musicians in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania while gaining a coast to coast following.