The final installment of the Music on the Mon summer concert series transpired on Sunday, August 6, as a rather musically-sophisticated crowd gathered at Nemacolin Castle to enjoy the groovy sounds of Jill West and the Blues Attack. In addition to some of the band’s original material, the audience of varying ages was treated to some blues classics stamped with a contemporary Jill West flavor. Several loyal Jill West followers in attendance made it quite evident that they had seen and heard Jill West and the Blues Attack many times before as they clapped and sang along with the band. 

Jill West and the Blues Attack got their start in smokey Pittwsburgh-area bars opening for the likes of legends B.B. King and Bo Diddley.  Although they still play in some smokey blues bars, they are anxious to take their show on the road.  The band conists of  JILL WEST (headliner) lead vocalist, Lead and Rhythm guitarist is Greg Krups (he also handles all of the details and bookings for the group), Bass guitarist is Hank Raffetto, the Barefoot Drummer is Mike Crano (and people did peek around to see if he really wasn't wearing shoes) and last, but not least, is the new keyboard player John DeCola.  Of the original tunes that aroused the crowd were “Needful Things,” “Love Song in C,” “Don't Burn the Barbeque,” and “Xtra Xtra.”  

    The locally owned and operated Apone's restaurant was also on the grounds selling their crispy french fries and famous pizza. Manning the booth were Marsha and Randy Shea.

    Members from BARC, the sponsoring organization of Music on the Mon, were on hand selling Brownsville items and refreshments. (See left: BARC board members Tracy Zivkovich, Lester and Cassandra Ward pose with Brownsville Councilman Charlie “Superman” Perkins)

Many locals enjoyed their evening on the Castle lawn and they were joined by many "Brownsville originals"(now living in Virginia, Ohio, West Virginia, and around the Pittsburgh area) who have relocated but were home for the week’s activities.  The concert was scheduled from 6:00pm to 8:00pm but Jill West and the Blues Attack (love singing and entertaining) played kept the party going well after.

Diane Sheridan

Official Music on the Mon Reporter for the Brownsville Telegraph