Hugh Pool and John Ragusa: "Feelin' good blues never felt better."

With its antique wood trim and classic bar, the artistic piece of stained glass perched atop a large window and the small, cozy stage, Teddy’s Bar and Grill exudes atmosphere. And while you saver Portobello “”Cubano” mushrooms, a Swiss burger or an order of blackened catfish, the clear and sharp sound of Mulebone, a band-in-residence, brings you home again. Rugged and strong, moving and beautiful, veteran musicians Hugh Pool and John Ragusa are masters of their craft, mixing a distinct American roots-style blues with a little bit of ragtime for good measure.
Frontman John Ragusa uses a collection of silver and bamboo flutes, penny whistles and a pocket trombone to create heart-wrenching harmonies, sometimes even daring to employ a conch shell in his musical repertoire. And I guarantee you’ve never heard a blues harp or steel guitar sound so good.
The ‘Mulebone’ EP spent 15 weeks in the Top 100 Albums on the “Americana Roots” chart for National radio airplay, as reported by the Album Network. They were also deemed Blues Artist of the Year by radio stations all across the USA. By land, sea or air, admirers like David Rockefeller and Bruce Wasserstein have brought the duo in for private parties.
Aside from the fantastic entertainment, Teddy’s Bar and Grill offers patrons a homey ambiance. The restaurant’s more private backroom dining area is equipped with a fireplace, and exhibits work by local artists. With a genuine love of the community, Felice Kirby, the dedicated owner of the 121 year old establishment, hopes the current Williamsburg renaissance will continue to provide peace and prosperity for both new and old residents, as well as neighborhood institutions.
So have yourself a tall glass of Winter Ale and catch a ride on the Mulebone train that will be stopping regularly at Teddy’s Bar and Grill. They will be performing on Thursday, February 12, and again on Thursday, March 12 at Teddy’s.
Teddy’s Bar & Grill
96 Berry Street, Corner of N.8th Street,
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211