PALMDALE – Runaway will perform country favorites at Poncitlán Square from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. this Thursday, June 28, as Palmdale hosts the third of eight free “Music in the Parks” events.
Runaway is Jay Bonanno, guitar and vocals; Jim Hinds, lead guitar; Doug Bonanno, guitar and vocals; Mike O’Dell, bass guitar and vocals; and Jim Deverian, drums.
Runaway formed in 2010 after lead guitarist Jim Hinds (a graduate of the Berkley College of Music and protégé of jazz guitar gurus Linc Chamberland and Ted Greene) and Jay Bonanno (a 26-year musical prodigy and part-time high school soccer coach) decided to break away from the stress of their day jobs as Air Traffic Controllers to collaborate in writing, recording, and playing music during their off time.
Upon deciding to form a band, Jim and Jay reached out to Jay’s father Doug Bonanno, a retired carpenter and music veteran with over 52 years’ experience as a lead and backup vocalist and rhythm guitarist, to join them. The father-son duo makes for the signature harmonies that contribute the band’s distinctive sound. Multi-talented Jim Deverian, a general contractor with over 30 years of musical experience playing rhythm guitar, bass and percussion was next to join the group on drums. Mike O’Dell has recently joined the band as the bass player and vocalist. He has played in many local favorite bands for the past 20 years.
“Music in the Parks” events take place Thursday evenings, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., through August 2. They alternate between Poncitlán Square, located at 9th St. East between Ave. Q-9 & Ave. Q-10, and Domenic Massari Park, located at 37716 55th St. East.
New for 2018 are dance lessons and free activities for kids. Izzy’s Taco House and Kona Ice Food trucks are available on site. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on. Attendees may bring food and non-alcoholic beverages.
The “Music in the Parks” line up features long time popular groups in the Antelope Valley, as well as some new groups. The schedule features:
Thursday, July 5
On Tap – Classic Rock, Pop, Country, Blues & Oldies
Domenic Massari Park
Thursday, July 12
Mama’s Hot Sauce – Rockabilly
Poncitlán Square
Thursday, July 19
Code Red – Everything from Rock to Country
Domenic Massari Park
Thursday, July 26
The Dance Band – R&B/Classics
Poncitlán Square
Thursday, August 2
Carry-On Band – High Energy Dynamic Rock
Domenic Massari Park
For more information, call Palmdale’s recreation and culture office at 661-267-5611, Monday through Thursday, between 7:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.