Sweet treats and sweeter songs at The Orchard Cafe

By Ashley Clementovich

What could be better for a grey and chilly evening than sipping on a steaming cappuccino, digging into a slice of red velvet cheesecake, and listening to some acoustic melodies? Singer-songwriter Matthias Barter attracted a sizeable audience to The Orchard Café last Tuesday night to enjoy just that. Families, couples, and friends gathered and indulged in delectable treats like birthday cake bars and mini vanilla cupcakes. Once well-sugared, everyone settled into their chairs as the lights dimmed, and Barter stepped up to the microphone with his guitar.

Originally from Edmonton, Barter has lived in Ottawa for the past four years where he plans to pursue a master’s degree in psychotherapy. While the musician noted that he only pursues music on the side, Barter has recently finished his second album which took around nine months to complete. Describing his music as “easy listening, coffee shop sound,” Barter draws on life experiences and relationships when writing songs. One such song, Barter noted, was inspired after coming home from a night out with friends and stopping on the way to buy a pack of bacon. Cooking up a breakfast at two a.m. propelled Barter to write a song into the early hours of the morning. “Some things are worth staying up for,” said Barter.

Throughout the sets, Barter told stories in between songs describing the inspiration behind the lyrics and whom they were about. Like many musicians before him, Barter drew from the well-explored theme of love and heartbreak. “I hope some of these songs are about the same girl,” joked attendee and music lover, Rob Dalke.

Barter’s manager and father, Mike Barter, said he tries to get his son to as many venues as possible while he is home. They are hoping to do a tour of Southern Alberta next. Barter’s first album, The First One, is available on iTunes.

Orchard Café owner Kelly Kenny said Barter’s performance is the first of the year, and she hopes to hold more musical evenings in the future.