Rene Rivera
About Rene
As one of the seminal members of the South Florida based rock band, Lochness Monster (LM), Rene delivers his powerful sound and sense of groove to his band. Equipped with the energy and tools that define a sound and style uniquely his own, Rene's expertise has not only aided in the recognition and increased popularity in the South Florida music scene, but has also been in demand by various artist looking to record with a solid pocket payer. As a session Drummer, Rene has developed an extensive portfolio with several up and comers. As a known player in the South Florida area, Rene maintained the driver's seat with acclaimed Country Cover Band "Burnt Biscuit" for 7 years under the direction of Roger White, Sr.
Along with a successful track record of live performances with Burnt Biscuit, Rene was adamantly sought after by numerous nationally recognized Churches such as, Christ Fellowship, Family Church (under the direction of John Stepp), and Coastal Life Church (under the direction of Brad Atherton) in the South Florida region.
Rene’s on going pursuit for excellence and professionalism has also allowed him to share the stage with 3 time Grammy Nominated/ 3 time Dove Award Winner Kim Hill, and Bassist Jett Beres of “Sister Hazel.”
As a passionate player and one who desires to better his craft as a drummer and musician, Rene furthered his technical abilities under the instruction of Jeff Johnson who studied classical percussion with Robert Nowak, drum set with Steve Fidyk, hand technique with legendary Jazz Drummer Joe Morello of the Dave Brubeck Quartet, and an alum of the Drummers Collective in NYC. Since returning to South Florida in 2017, Rene has continued his learning with instruction from Kevin Fruge (drummer for Angels of War), and Jonathan Genck
In the midst of COVID, and its impact on the music industry, Rene and the gang of Lochness Monster spent time creating and writing. As a veteran to the scene, and no stranger to the studio, Rene and the boys of Lochness Monster [Justin Shaner (Electric Guitar, Bruce Donaldson (Lead Singer), & Federico Carradini (Bass Guitar)] kicked off their recording sessions at Rain Cat Recordings studio, in Stuart, FL in early March of 2020. "After tracking with Rain Cat, COVID lockdowns began and we were stuck.", according to Rene. As things opened up LM continued writing and looking to complete their next EP. In October 2021 the boys, completed, "Working For A Future" the bands next EP, at The Bull Productions Recording Studio. "This time recording was the longest and toughest one yet, due to COVID and working with multiple studios to track our new stuff", according to Justin Shaner, Guitar Player for Lochness Monster. "Working For A Future" is available now on digital music streaming platforms and digital music retailers.