Ana Popović Shreds the Blues at Jergel’s in Warrendale, PA

By Dave Parsons

On the evening of March 9, 2025, Jergel’s Rhythm Grille in Warrendale, Pennsylvania, was the setting for an electrifying night of blues and rock, headlined by the renowned guitarist and vocalist Ana Popović. The Pittsburgh-based band Moonshine Jasmine opened the show, setting the stage for a memorable musical experience.​

Jergel’s Rhythm Grille is a well-known venue in the Warrendale area, celebrated for its excellent acoustics, and close interaction with the audience, making it a favored spot for both local and touring musicians. Offering a varied menu and large portions, doubles down that it is more than just a concert venue. 

Moonshine Jasmine, a Pittsburgh-based band, opened the evening with a dynamic performance. Originally formed in 2021 as a three-piece acoustic ensemble featuring mandolin, bass, and acoustic guitar, they have since evolved into a five-piece blues rock band. Their music draws inspiration from artists like Janis Joplin and The Black Keys, blending bluesy folk roots with a rock edge.

The band’s set included original compositions characterized by heartfelt lyrics and robust melodies. Their performance showcased their growth as musicians and their ability to connect with the audience, effectively setting the tone for the night’s main act.

At this point, the gentleman seated next to me at the bar had paid for a ticket to get in AND a $75 bar and food tab. So, I was taken aback when he asked me to tell him about Ana Popović. Why are you here, dude?  

So, with the help of Mr. Google and her website, I obliged him. 

Ana Popović is one of the most accomplished blues guitarists of her generation. Born in Belgrade, Serbia, in 1976, she grew up in a home filled with blues records and the sound of her father’s guitar. By the age of 15, she was already playing the blues herself, inspired by legends like B.B. King, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Jimi Hendrix.

Popović’s career took off in the late 1990s when she formed her first band, Hush, and quickly gained recognition in the European blues scene. In 2000, she moved to the Netherlands to study jazz guitar at the conservatory in Utrecht, which helped refine her technical skill while maintaining her blues-rock roots. She released her debut solo album, Hush!, in 2001, which launched her onto the international stage.

Since then, Popović has released over a dozen albums, earned multiple Blues Music Award nominations, and shared stages with icons like Buddy Guy, Joe Bonamassa, and Gary Clark Jr. Her distinctive playing style blends traditional blues with funk, jazz, and rock, making her one of the most versatile and respected guitarists in contemporary blues music.

By this time,  Ana Popović took the stage, greeted by enthusiastic applause from the audience. Dressed in her signature high-heeled boots and stylish attire, she exuded confidence and charisma from the first note. As for that fiery guitar playing and soulful vocals, Popović did not disappoint. Her setlist featured a mix of original songs and select covers, highlighting her versatility and deep understanding of the blues genre.

Opening the set with Rise Up, the tone was set for the evening. Power Over Me and Ride It followed, with the band trading tasty guitar solos, reflecting Popović’s talent as a guitarist and vocalist. Queen of the Pack showed their ability to fuse blues with rock elements.

The set included a few covers and songs from throughout Popović’s catalog. The highlight of the night, Like It on Top, was delivered with the empowerment the song was celebrating. Lasting Kind of Love saw each band member taking extended solos to the delight of the audience.

Overall, the concert was a testament to the enduring appeal of blues and rock music. The intimate setting of Jergel’s allowed for a close connection between the performers and the audience, enhancing the overall concert experience. It was evident that many in attendance were longtime fans, singing along to favorites and reacting to every fiery guitar solo with excitement. It was a night few that were there, will ever forget.

Moonshine Jasmine Setlist:

Grateful

Crazy Out There

Man You Pretend To Be

Creep

Whole Lotta Trouble

Smokey Mountain Revival

What’s Up

Done Runnin’

Ana Popovic Setlist:

Rise Up

Power Over Me

Ride It

Queen of the Pack

Strong Taste

New Coat of Paint

Fencewalk

Loving Touch

Doin’ This

Brand New Man

Like It on Top

Lasting Kind of Love

Turn My Luck