4 days ago
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Maci Mattravers is a Boise-based singer-songwriter whose music bridges the intimacy of indie folk with the drive of folk-rock. She dropped debut EP To The Bone in 2024 and later that year, her debut album Back to the Garden, a ten-track collection of stripped-down, reflective pieces that showcased her roots in folk and acoustic songwriting. New record All Things Considered sees her step into a bigger, more dynamic sound while holding onto the heart and honesty that defines her music.
Describe your sound?
My music is rooted in lyric-driven indie folk, inspired by writers like Joni Mitchell and Laura Marling, but it’s grown into something more expansive over time. At its core, it’s intimate and reflective – I care deeply about storytelling and emotional specificity. But musically, I’m drawn to movement and texture. What started as mostly acoustic arrangements has evolved into something fuller and more dynamic. Sonically, I’ve grown alongside my recordings. I want the songs to feel personal, but not small.
And your live show?
Last year was my first time playing Treefort. I played at Lost Grove Brewing, which felt really special and intimate. This year, getting to step onto the Main Stage feels surreal. The live show has grown a lot alongside the music. I’ll be playing with an eight-piece band featuring guitars, drums, bass, trumpet, bass clarinet, saxophone, and trombone… so the set feels bigger and cinematic while still grounded in storytelling. There are moments that feel quiet and almost confessional, and then others that open up and feel expansive and celebratory. I still think of myself as a songwriter first, so even with all that instrumentation, the heart of the show is connection. I want people to feel like they’re being let in on something honest, just with a bigger sound this time.
What should we listen to first?
My answer to that is always changing, but I’d say "Collateral". That song feels like a turning point for me both personally and creatively. It’s about pushing myself to reflect honestly and let go of things that don’t belong to me anymore. Sometimes we carry emotions, guilt, patterns, or narratives long after they’ve stopped serving us. "Collateral" was my way of naming that and choosing to release it.
My guitarist, Grady Bell (who also just happens to be my cousin) was integral in making the song feel how it does. His guitar intro just tears at you, setting the tone before the lyrics even begin. The trumpet solo I think also adds a subtle, bittersweet lift that gives the song another layer of depth without overpowering the intimacy that I felt when writing it alone in my room last year.
Someone recently told me that my songs feel deeply specific to my life but still universally relatable, and that meant so much to me. That’s what I look for in my favorite songwriters. Artists who tell their truth so clearly that it somehow becomes yours, too. I think "Collateral" captures that balance the best, or at least how I strive to write and present my songs.
Tell us about the Boise music scene
The Boise music scene has been overall very welcoming and supportive. I’m grateful for mentors like David Gluck and JD Stefan, who really pushed me to start recording and pursuing music more seriously. Over the last few years, the Duck Club has also helped me break through a lot of mental barriers I didn’t even realise I’d made for myself.
Getting to play music I love, in a community I love, in a place I love, just feels quite special. In my experience, the community of musicians in Boise does want to see each other succeed. Some artists and bands in town I really admire right now include Brand New Companion, Mckenna Esteb, Cactus Moon, and Nick Delffs. They’re doing great work and you will often catch me at those shows.
What about your memories of Treefort?
Several Treeforts ago, my best friend and I stumbled upon an intriguing and comedic duo of troubadours busking in the street downtown on the last day of Treefort, with a sign in front of them that said “Johnny Franco and his real brother Dom.” I came for the Beatles covers, I stayed for the originals! We danced in the street as they played and it was a lovely. The memory became even sweeter because my first ever solo performance the following fall ended up being opening for them on their tour from Portland, along with Lucas Benoit and Mike Coykendall, at the Shrine. Getting to share a stage with them felt like a full-circle moment, one of those times where Treefort truly feels like a community and network, not just a festival.
And if you saw me sobbing in the back of the room during Lucas Benoit’s set at the last Treefort… no you didn’t (but you definitely did). I love his songwriting and something about that set really struck a chord with me.
What should we do in town before the music starts?
Boise has so much to offer, and it’s really best experienced at a relaxed pace. Definitely check out the local coffee shops and eateries downtown, it’s a great way to get a feel for the city and support local businesses. If you’re into the outdoors, the Greenbelt and foothills are must-dos; even a short walk gives you a beautiful sense of Boise’s natural beauty.
Music-wise, try to catch a show at one of the smaller venues. The city has such a tight-knit and welcoming music community, and you can stumble upon some great local acts. And honestly, don’t rush it. Boise’s charm is in the little things. The street art, the quirky shops, the friendly people. Skip trying to cram too much in, and let yourself wander and soak it all in. Oh, and don’t underestimate the weather... layers are your friend!
Best late night snack and hangover food?
Tacos at the Shrine Social Club! That has been the recent go-to. Toros Tacos recently opened there in the basement and I believe is normally open until 1:30 A.M., which makes them perfect for a late-night post-show bite.
For hangovers, Blue Sky Bagels – can’t go wrong. I’m a sucker for a plain jane parmesan bagel with cream cheese. Also, Flying M Coffee is one of my favourite local shops. I’m often there for a latte and pretzel or pastry in the mornings.
Maci Mattravers performs on Treefort Music Fest's main stage on 26 March at 2.40pm
English (US) · 