The Impalas featuring Dawna Nelson

Imagine the best female vocalist you’ve ever heard.

Now imagine that girl in junior high that you knew could beat up any guy in class and probably most of the teachers.

If your brain can make it compute, add the two together. The sum is Dawna Nelson of the Impalas.

She’s a badass, she’s sassy and her voice will blow you away…

— Mike Ingram The Buzz 2007

Original blues-rock done with finesse and craft. The Impalas have been playing around Champaign for some while now, and their long hours spent in the trenches show…They mesh well together: crisp, lean and tightly integrated, there’s a sharp interplay between the band members that shines…If you haven’t heard or seen them, then you should definitely check them out…

— The Octopus, Sept 97

One of the best live bands in town. You are always guaranteed a great time when you sit back and enjoy their mix of rocking blues. A great band to dance to…if you can find room.

— The Octopus, Jan 98