Mad Jack’s BBQ offers gospel and jazz brunches

PITTSFIELD – The Berkshires have numerous opportunities for good dining of all kinds, but none offered gospel music at brunch until now.

Last Sunday, a gospel brunch took place at Mad Jack’s BBQ, 295 North St.

It was billed as a “Praise the Lord and pass the biscuits” event.

Many more gospel, and jazz brunches, as well, will be offered monthly at Mad Jack’s in the future, said Sarah Powell, co-owner.

As customers munched on a full-scale buffet prepared by Jabari Powell, Mad Jack’s co-owner, members of  the Allegrettos sang their hearts out.

The group is an a capella gospel chorus from MCLA (Massachusetts College of the Liberal Arts) . It was started in 2009 by J. (Juwonni) Cottle.

The Allegrettos won second place in the first annual Lenox Caroling Festival last December.

About a dozen members of the very popular group sang at the brunch, where diners could eat freshly prepared food as well as “feed their souls.”

They started out the program with a spirited rendition of “Ride on King Jesus.” Diners then listened to numerous selections, including “The Lord Is Blessing Me.”

The gospel brunch food offerings included Powell’s ham, brisket, sausage patties, bacon, scrambled eggs, crème brulee French toast, hash, freshly baked biscuits with gravy, grits, fruit salad with different kinds of melons and blueberries, and additional selections.

There was also a make-your-own Bloody Mary bar.

Mad Jack’s is alternating ongoing gospel brunches with jazz groups.

“We will definitely be inviting the Allegrettos back,” said Mrs. Powell.  “They were really great. This has been so much fun.”