About The Bionic Rats

Two decades deep and still skanking strong.

Formed in Dublin in 2006 by singer-songwriter Del Bionic following the breakup of reggae outfit #Kingsativa, The Bionic Rats have spent the last 20 years carving out their own explosive blend of reggae, ska, dub and punk energy. What began as a passion project quickly evolved into a constantly shifting musical force — a band built on heavy grooves, sharp rhythms and unforgettable live shows.

Over the years, The Bionic Rats have shared stages with some of the greatest names in reggae, ska and alternative music, including Lee 'Scratch' Perry, Horace Andy, Bad Manners, Imelda May, Israel Vibration, Jimmy Cliff, Johnny Clarke, The Jolly Boys, The Selecter, Damien Dempsey, The Beat and Hothouse Flowers.

Shortly after forming we began  a Sunday night residency in Dublin bar The Foggy Dew, which lasted 18 years until Feb 2024, one of the longest running nights on the Dublin music scene.

A highlight came in July 2023, when the band became the backing group for legendary ska icon Roy Ellis of Symarip "Skinhead Moonstomp" fame — a true full-circle moment for lifelong fans of the genre.

The Rats also shared a special connection with the late great Ranking Roger. Alongside his son Murphy, Roger joined the band onstage at The Grand Social in Dublin for a memorable performance of “Ranking Full Stop,” flowing into a dubbed-out version of Eek-A-Mouse’s “Ganja Smuggling.” It would sadly become his final performance on an Irish stage.

Respect and love always, Ranking Roger. R.I.P.

From sweaty clubs to festival stages, The Bionic Rats continue to push forward — louder, deeper and more unstoppable than ever.