The LOCKMASTERS are a traditional three piece combo that play original songs; many of which are inspired by the sights, sounds and history of the Ottawa Valley. Featuring upright bass, violin and acoustic guitar, their sound falls somewhere between traditional country and bluegrass. Beautiful harmonies and violin playing by Natalie Cross fills out the driving rhythm and sing-a-long vocals of Chops (bass fiddle) and Slo’ Tom (acoustic guitar). Their first single “THE OLD CANAL” celebrates the 200th year anniversary of the Rideau canal and the hard working labourers who made it a reality.

The band was originally conceived when Chops and Slo’ Tom met by chance on the final closing night of the Lockmaster Tavern (the infamous watering hole on the corner of Bank and Somerset). A rowdy dispute erupted over who wrote the song “Me and You and a Dog Named Boo” but was quickly forgotten when the proprietor insisted they leave the premises and never return. Having nothing better to do, the two sat on the steps of the Duke of Somerset and “pan handled” for change until finally giving up. They ran into each other the next day at Boko Bakery, decided to form a band, then waited 20 years for Natalie to move to Ottawa. Just like that… THE LOCKMASTERS were born, and the rest is history!