The Legendary Lake Monsters

The Legendary Lake Monsters are a sizzling, high-energy 11-piece horn-driven band from Vernon, British Columbia, bringing together some of the Okanagan Valley’s finest musicians for a truly unforgettable live music experience.

The band features the powerful vocals of Anita Baturin and Paul May and Cory Bagg, the soulful keys and vocals of Sergei Ryga, the driving rhythm section of Nathan Loewen on bass and Greg Baturin on drums and vocals, along with a dynamic six-piece horn section featuring Cory Bagg (Baritone Sax), Alex Barss (Alto Sax/Vocals), Craig Carmody (Tenor Sax), Ann Dorval (Trombone/Vocals), Rick Smith (Trumpet/Vocals), and Al Szelgia (Trumpet).

Together, The Monsters create a powerful, energetic wall of sound that is both unique and unforgettable.

The Legend Behind the Name

The name The Legendary Lake Monsters was born during a scorching hot outdoor rehearsal overlooking the lake in the Okanagan Valley. The band wanted a name that represented both the region they call home and the size and spirit of the group — something memorable, distinctive, and a little larger than life.

The legendary Ogopogo, the famous lake creature said to inhabit Okanagan Lake, has been part of Okanagan folklore for generations and is recognized throughout Canada. With more than two handfuls of “Monster” musicians coming together to create something special, the name was a perfect fit.

Born to Make People Dance

Dance was the reason The Legendary Lake Monsters formed in 2012. Created by original bandleader Rod MacDonald, with the vision and drive of horn players Craig Carmody and Al Szelgia, the goal was simple: build a dance band unlike anything else in the Okanagan.

MacDonald described their sound as “a dynamic and entertaining horn-driven sound, playing music from a wide range of genres.”

That vision continues today. The Monsters blend an exciting mix of Swing, R&B, ‘60s Pop and Rock, ‘70s Funk, ‘80s New Wave, Latin, and modern horn-based music from artists such as Bruno Mars, Cake, Amy Winehouse, Maroon 5, Trombone Shorty, Adele, Nikki Yanofsky, Meghan Trainor, and Shemekia Copeland.

Their diverse repertoire allows them to create anything from a high-energy dance party to a themed musical experience tailored specifically for each event.

The Evolution of The Monsters

Over the years, The Legendary Lake Monsters have continued to evolve, welcoming exceptional musicians who have helped shape the band’s sound.

A standout addition came in the band’s second year with the arrival of vocalist Anita Baturin, followed by her husband Greg Baturin, whose powerful and precise drumming continues to drive the band’s rhythm section.

In late 2014, the band welcomed the incredible talents of Henry Piovesan, a gifted vocalist, composer, keyboardist, and Hammond B3 organ player, along with Mike Scharf, formerly of The Shuffle Demons, adding his unique baritone sax sound. Aaron French also brought his talents as the band’s bass player.

A Wealth of Musical Experience

Members of The Legendary Lake Monsters have shared stages with internationally recognized artists including Colin James, Mike Reno (Loverboy), Jo Burt (formerly of Black Sabbath), Dzal Martin (The Equals), Jack Lovin (Powder Blues), Russell Jackson (The B.B. King Band), Alfie Zappacosta, Paul Laine, and Sonny Rhodes (Sonny Rhodes Blues Band).

Performing Across the Okanagan

The Legendary Lake Monsters have entertained large audiences at some of the Okanagan’s premier festivals and venues, including Vernon’s Funtastic Music Festival, Penticton Peachfest Music Festival, Penticton’s Rib and Music Festival, Vernon Jazz Club, Vibrant Vines Winery, Lorenzo’s Café, The Green, Sparkling Hill Resort, and the 400+ capacity Vernon Prestige Lodge.

The band has also created unforgettable themed events, including a sold-out Bond 007 New Year’s Eve celebration in 2015 featuring local award-winning Okanagan Spirits, a sizzling Mardi Gras New Year’s celebration in 2017, and a sold-out Rat Pack Las Vegas tribute in 2018.

From festivals and community events to weddings, private parties, and fundraisers, The Legendary Lake Monsters bring energy, musicianship, and a genuine love of performance to every stage.

At the heart of the band is the joy of creating music together and sharing that experience with audiences. After a lifetime of playing music, guitarist Paul May sums it up best:

"One of the great joys of playing music is the ability to use the experiences we’ve developed over a lifetime to make the best music we can with good friends."

The Legendary Lake Monsters don’t just perform — they create a celebration, a connection, and a party people remember.