Bionic Bird - Keeping Live Music Alive

Bionic Bird is more than just a band-it's a high-energy celebration of live rock and roll, delivering a powerful mix of 80s hits, classic rock, and timeless favorites. Featuring a lineup of seasoned musicians with decades of experience, Bionic Bird is dedicated to reviving the spirit of live music with electrifying performances that captivate audiences.

Each member brings a wealth of musical experience, having performed with numerous bands, shared the stage with legendary artists, and played venues across the country. With dynamic instrumentation, soaring vocals, and an undeniable stage presence, Bionic Bird delivers an unforgettable live music experience.

Whether it's a packed venue, outdoor festival, or intimate club, Bionic Bird brings an infectious energy that keeps fans coming back for more. Their mission is simple: keep live music alive and create unforgettable experiences through the power of rock and roll.
Get ready to sing, dance, and rock out with Bionic Bird!



John Russo - Lead Vocals

John has been a dynamic presence in the local music scene for over four decades. His journey into the spotlight began unexpectedly while working as a lighting tech for American Grease, the band featuring Dan "Kerm" Harmon and Daryn Ranta. When two of the band's singers lost their voices mid-show, John stepped up to the microphone-and never looked back. From that moment, Dan knew that if he ever started a new project, John would be his frontman.

After a stint with Skeleton Crew, John and Dan teamed up to form Scotch Bonnet, solidifying their musical partnership. Over the years, John has continued to make his mark, performing with bands like Bad Stone and fronting the popular acoustic/rock group Martini & Russo, a project he still leads today.

Now, John has reunited with Dan and Daryn to form Bionic Bird, bringing his powerful vocals, commanding stage presence, and decades of experience to this exciting new band. With an electrifying mix of 80s rock, classic hits, and high-energy performances, John is ready to take audiences on a thrilling musical ride.


Daryn Ranta - Keyboards, guitars Vocals

Daryn, a Los Angeles native who relocated to Ohio in 1974, found his passion for music and art early on. His love for performing took off when Dan "Kerm" Harmon invited him to join Lock Stock and Barrel, leading to a series of musical projects like Liaison, American Grease, and Retrovox.

As a guitarist, keyboardist, and vocalist (both lead and backing), Daryn brings versatility and energy to the stage. Now, with his latest venture, BIONIC BIRD, he delivers a fresh take on live music, blending 80s favorites with timeless classics. Dedicated to keeping live music thriving, he continues to prove that the energy and passion of performance are very much alive today.



Gary "Bones" Bonam - Guitars, Vocals

BONES has been a powerhouse in the music scene since 1961, kicking off his career with his first gig in 1963. With a resume spanning countless bands, his most notable projects include Easy Street (1976-1984), The Royal Chessmen (1968-1971), and American Grease (1997-2010).

Over the decades, he has shared the stage with legendary acts like Steppenwolf, Cream, Jimi Hendrix, 38 Special, REO Speedwagon, and America. His journey has taken him coast to coast-from Nashville to Texas, Canada, and even Kansas-bringing his passion for live music to audiences far and wide. Still going strong, Bones remains dedicated to the craft, proving that true musicians never stop rockin'.



Dan "Kerm" Harmon - Bass Guitar

Dan is a seasoned bassist with a lifelong passion for rock and roll. His musical journey began in 1976 when he first picked up the guitar, but his path quickly shifted to bass in 1978 to fill a crucial role in his first band. This transition set the foundation for a career spanning multiple genres and decades of live performances.

In 1980, Dan met Daryn Ranta, sparking a long-running collaboration that led to projects such as Liaison and American Grease. In 1991, he ventured into country music, forming Unbridled, which enjoyed a successful four-year run before Dan returned to his true musical passion-rock and roll. He then founded Scotch Bonnet, featuring John Russo on lead vocals, further solidifying his presence in the local music scene.

Dan's career continued to evolve, and in 2016, he joined Joe Banana and the Bunch, where he first played alongside Gary "Bones" Bonam. Following Bones' departure, the band rebranded as The Next, where Dan remained an integral member until 2024. That year, he embarked on his most exciting project yet-Bionic Bird, a band dedicated to bringing the energy of live rock music to audiences everywhere.

With his deep-rooted experience, steady bass lines, and commitment to live performance, Dan continues to prove that rock and roll is very much alive. Now, as part of Bionic Bird, he looks forward to delivering electrifying performances and keeping the spirit of live music thriving.



Ron Manes - Drummer

Ron is a seasoned drummer with a lifelong passion for music. His journey behind the drum kit began at the age of 13 when he played his first gig with a Youngstown-based polka band. Since then, he has honed his craft through years of live performances and collaborations with musicians across various genres.

An active presence in the local music scene, Ron enjoys participating in both acoustic and electric open mics, jamming with fellow artists and exploring new sounds. His recent projects include playing with the band Iris and the acoustic duo Messy Covers, as well as providing percussion for a range of local acoustic artists.

Now, as the drummer for Bionic Bird, Ron brings his rhythmic expertise and dynamic energy to the stage, helping to drive the band's high-energy performances. He is excited for this new musical endeavor and looks forward to sharing the experience with audiences everywhere.

SONGLIST

White Room by Cream 1968

Sunshine of your Love by Cream 1968

Good Lovin by The Young Rascals 1966

Runaway Train by Soul Asylum 1993

Breakup Song by The Greg Kihn Band 1981

Tuff Enuff by Fabulous Thunderbirds 1986

Hey Jealousy by Gin Blossoms 1989

But It's Alright by Huey Lewis and the News 1994

Walking on a Thin Line by Huey Lewis and the News 1983

The Power of Love by Huey Lewis and the News 1985

Rough Boy by ZZ Top 1986

Stages by ZZ Top 1985

La Grange by ZZ Top 1973

Got Me Under Pressure by ZZ Top 1983

I Shot the Sheriff by Eric Clapton 1974

Start Me Up by Rolling Stones 1981

No Matter What by Badfinger 1970

The One I Love byR.E.M. 1987

Losing My Religion by R.E.M. 1991

You Wreck Me by Tom Petty 1995

Stealin by Uriah Heep 1973

My Best Friends Girl by The Cars 1977

Just What I Needed by The Cars 1978

Let's Go by The Cars 1979

Superstition by Stevie Wonder 1972

Learn To Fly by Foo Fighters 1999

The Other Woman by Ray Parker Jr. 1982

Nights In White Satin by Moody Blues 1967

Bad To the Bone by George Thorogood 1982

Fox On the Run by Sweet 1974

Kryptonite by 3 Doors Down 2000

Love Stinks by J Geils Band 1980

Centerfold by J Geils Band 1981

Play That Funky Music by Wild Cherry 1976

Vehicle by Ides of March 1970

Riding the Storm Out by REO Speedwagon 1973

Two Tickets To Paradise by Eddie Money 1978

It's All Over Now by Molly Hatchet 1979

Talking In Your Sleep by The Romantics 1983

What I Like About You by The Romantics 1979

Cherry Cherry by Neil Diamond 1966

R.O.C.K. In the USA by John Cougar Mellencamp 1986

On The Dark Side by John Cafferty & the Beaver Brown Band 1983

Gimmie Your Money Please by Bachman-Turner Overdrive 1973

I Got a Line On You by Spirit 1968

867-5309/Jenny by Tommy Tutone 1981

Burnin For You by Blue Oyster Cult 1981