The Bionic Rats – Wah Wah

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In their own words….

The Bionic Rats came into this world after the demise of Dublin reggae outfit Kingsativa. With bass player/songwriter Derek taking over vocal duties and drummer Anthony manning the sticks the band grew and changed shape over the next few years to eventually include two piece brass, percusssion and keyboards. The band began a residency every Sunday in the Foggy Dew in Temple Bar shortly after forming, which was soon followed by every Thursday in Turks Head also Temple Bar. Both nights are firmly established on the Dublin reggae scene and attract a loyal following. Playing regular gigs made the band super tight and support slots to some of their musical idols followed. The legendary British Ska band Madness had the rats open for them in the Tri-Pod in 2008 and also used the services of the Bionic Rats dj’s into the wee hours at the after show party. Other artists they have shared the stage with include Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Horace Andy, Imelda May, Damian Dempsey, Israel Vibration, Johnny Clarke and The Infomatics.
2009 saw the release of their debut album “Return of the Bionic Rats’, made up of original compostions, it was recorded and released by the band themselves and all the songs contained are crowd favorites, sticking to the reggae ska formula but putting a decidedly Irish slant to the subject matters. Edwin McFee from the Hot Press gave it a thumbs up saying “the record is a joy to listen to…top stuff”. The album lead to a slot on the 2009 Electric Picnic, where after playing their set on friday night they where asked to play in the cosby the tent the night after alongside The Infomatics.
2010 has already began with the band playing outside Ireland for the first time, playing in CSA Baraonda, in Bergamo, Milan in Feb with a return trip in May pencilled in. A week in Poznan, Poland is booked for August, taking in Berlin for a night or two while in that part of the world. May/June is the planned release date for a single (brand new geansai) with video to accompany it, so plenty to watch out for in 2010.