The Best Little Rock and Roll Bar in Pittsburgh

20 Years is a long time for any business to stay open. For a tavern that caters to live music, it's almost unheard of in these times. The smoke may be gone since the laws have changed, but the dirt, grease, and sweat of a night of rock and roll still permeates the small room. Moondogs sits in the middle of the small town of Blawnox, Pennsylvania. Just five miles from downtown Pittsburgh. This venue is famous for bringing in artists such as Jimmy Thackery, John Eddie, Norm Nardini, Lil Ed and the Imperials, Jill West, as well as yours truly, Bill Toms. Moondogs has also hosted legendary musicians like Levon Helm and John Hammond Jr. Though there is no single style of music that is defined, blues and rock and roll seem to be the staple here. This is in direct correlation to the personality, and tastes of its owner, Ron "Moondog" Esser. Ron is not only the owner, but the cook, promoter, booking agent, and sometimes even the sound-man. Check out the food channel and you may come across Ron Esser cooking perogies at the Starlight Lounge next door to Moondogs on the show "Diner, Drive -ins, and Dives". You owe it to yourself to order about a dozen before a show .

The drummer hits the kick pedal. Guitar player straps in. The singer counts off, and the soul of the place rises up, and lifts the spirit. It is redemption brothers and sisters. The promise land has been reached. You may be watching the greatest show on earth.. Can I get an amen.