The Cottar's lead guitarist is Bruce Timmins, one of the most respected accompanists in the Maritimes today. A proud Cape Bretoner, he specializes in Celtic, jazz, and contemporary styles and his instrumental prowess and versatility have enabled the band's sound to reach new levels of excitement and originality.

Besides his extensive recording-studio experience, Bruce has worked in "live" theatre (eg. "Cape Breton's Greatest Hits"), and has toured with John Allan Cameron, Tom Leadbeater, and many other noted musicians.