Jeannie: Everything and Everyone Everwhere. Especially my loving and ever-supportive familyand of course my dearest fwend Rachel without whom my life would be empty and I would be left floundering in the darkness. The peace I get from nature and the love of animals is a constant in my life. I've been inspired by so many artists such as: Sarah Mac Band, Madeleine Peyroux, The Duhks, Amy Steinberg, Lorna Bracewell, Lexi Pearson, Ani DiFranco, Etta James, Tori Amos, Led Zepplin, Sheryl Crow, Billie Holiday, Jack Johnson, Eddie Vedder, Pearl Jam, Pink Floyd, George Benson, John Mayer, Keller Williams, AC/DC, Black Sabbath,Dave Matthews, Donna the Buffalo, Kevin Lureau, Boxelder, Doorway 27, Rudy, Eva Cassidy, and of course...Bob Ross /
Leo: Influences-Loving family, Nature, Jeff Beck, Steve Morse, Jimmy Page
My Hero!!!
Sleepin’ Dogz is comprised of singer-songwriter / acoustic rhythm guitarist Jeannie Blatus and lead guitarist Leo Burke. Their sound blends a blues injected rock groove with pop flavored jazz. Jeannie’s songs are intimate and sometimes uncomfortably honest. Her voice and performance echoes the passion of Beth Hart combined with the soulful blues stylings of Bonnie Raitt. Very diverse, one moment she conjures up the vein-popping, sweaty, powerful rock siren within, and then it’s a healthy dose of sweet, smooth, and sultry. Hook laden and catchy, her songs are the kind you find yourself singing all day.
Leo Burke’s guitar work adds an edgy excitement to the music. His poignant playing tastefully weaves throughout the songs. His leads are melodic and suggest another vocalist harmonizing with Jeannie. Influenced by rock fusion guitarist such as Steve Morse and Jeff Beck, Leo’s close relationship with his instrument (guitar that is) gives him the ability to rip out a face melting lead or gently seduce with a beautiful melody.
Their mutual love of music grew into a love for each other that is undeniably evident on stage. Together they put on a passionate performance. They initially built a strong, creative bond while performing previously in Vero Beach, Florida based Rock band, 4 Steps Closer. Sleepin’ Dogz released their self-titled CD in 2005 with rave reviews. The project was a compilation of songs recorded with members of 4SC, Sheldon Shrum (bass & backup vocals), John Aughinbaugh (drums) and guest percussionist Kevin Lureau combined with a number of all acoustic tracks. They are currently in the studio recording and self-producing their second LP with the projected release being early Spring of 2008. Nationally touring for over 5 years, they have developed a loyal and ever-growing fan base.
Large Capacity Venues:
Mesa Park Amphitheater, FL
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, FL
Sandy Shoes Festival, FL
Indian River County Center for the Arts, FL
Indian River County Fair Grounds, FL
Downtown Clematis Street Festival, FL
Dodger Stadium, FL
Jensen Beach Pineapple Festival, FL
Budweiser True Music Concert Series 2004
The Deland Original Music Festival ’05,’06,’07
Opened for National Recording Artists:
The Romantics * Blue County * David Olney * Big 10-4 * Jake Owen
Performed with National Indie Artists:
Boxelder * Doorway 27 * SideCar/Dynaride * Amy Steinberg * Rudy * Justin Beckler * Lorna Bracewell * The Sarah Mac Band
Awards:
2002 Jeannie Blatus Finalist in Suwannee River Spring Fest Songwriters Competition
2004 Winners of the Budweiser True Music Battle of the Bands
2004 Pick of the Week 104.1 Real Radio FM
Press Reviews:
2008 Tre Amici Songwriters Series
"A Sleepin’ Dogz show is a musical meal that is equal parts sweet, spicy and satisfying. With two people as obviously in tune with each other as Leo and Jeannie are, you know you’re watching something special.” -Jessie
Prostar Studio
"There is showmanship and energy to spare when this dynamic duo takes the stage. With Leo anchoring their sound with his strong and inspired guitar work, and with Jeannie’s amazingly expressive voice soaring through their songs, the audience is treated to a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Their live show is filled with passion, humor, and just plain fun."
-Rocco Colello Concert Promoter
Studio 10
"This Vero Beach based duo has continued to impress Tampa Bay area music-lovers since their first visit to Pro Star in September 07."
-Tampa Bay’s TV 10
2006 The Local Buzz Magazine
"Leo Burke’s emotional playing makes itself evident throughout the songs."
"The vocals and musical arrangments are very listenable."
"an amazingly talented duo"
2005 CD Baby
” Outstanding, sexy vocals by frontwoman Jeannie Blatus, who writes from an honest and experienced heart.”
“Simply put it’s fantastic”
”wonderful original stuff; never gets old; gets better with each play!”
” How this little band has been overlooked by the big show, whether New York, L.A. or Nashville, is beyond me. This album is worth twice the price and the band is even better at a live show. Lets hope there’s a second helping.
2004 Brevard Live Magazine December
"has the freshness of early alternative."
2004 Ft. Pierce Tribune
”Blatus is a powerfully, emotive vocalist.”
2003 Brevard Live Magazine November
"contains the classic feel of Bonnie Raitt and Fleetwood Mac while maintaining a new millennium edge.
View Sleepin’ Dogz’s EPK
Hey, just wanted to stop by and wish you a great weekend hope all is great. I will be in the recording studio on Monday so it's a lot of rehearsals this weekend. ~adrian adriannrhen. com
Hey there! Thank you SO much! Yes, I would love to see and hear you live and in person, and I think St. Augustine would welcome you with open arms! You two have such an awesome sound!
Aw, I've been thinking of you both and can't wait to see you next time you come around! (P.S. I don't know why I waited so long to try the singing thing. I love it!)
Hey there, thanks for stopping by and leaving your kind words, I wanted to add you on 'cause I fell in love with Secret Admirer, what a great tune, also diggin' the philosophy that there's enough space for everyone to shine, gorgeous! The very best of luck to all ya dogz. Love light and music comin' atcha, Lisa
Thank you!! No I haven't done any album art yet, but Evan and Aaron want me to do some for their cd when they finish it....I'm up for anything though, if you have any ideas =]
