THE INSOMNIACS "LEFT COAST BLUES" Source: Tulsa Blues Society Date: 03/2008 Writer: Bill Martin

Not to be confused with the New Jersey power pop trio by the same name, or the Insomniacz, a rap group, Oregon’s own The Insomniacs has a lot of people buzzing with their debut CD Left Coast Blues. Inspired by West Coast musicians such as JuniorWatson, and Little Charlie & The Nightcats, this is a quartet of young guys led by guitarist/vocalist Vyas Dodson, 25, on guitar and backed by bassist Dean Mueller, keyboardist Alex Shakeri and drummer Dave Melyan. The well produced effort, leaves no doubt as to the musicianship of the group and song writing abilities of Dodson. This album is awash in swing, jump blues, R&B and intertwined with 1950’s rock n’ roll. On occasion Dodson’s vocals reminds me of Robben Ford. My friend Greg Wilkinson, driving force behind the Chautauqua Hills Blues Festival seems as excited about having this group at his event this coming Memorial weekend in Sedan, KS as just about any act he’s booked during the past 7 years – and that’s saying something. The Insomniacs are a 2008 Blues Music Awards nominee for “Best New Artist Debut.” The awards will be held in May prior to their appearance at Chautauqua.