Getting inside the local scene at Treefort Music Fest
As Treefort Music Fest returns to the Idaho capital of Boise for five days of intense and brilliant live performances, we get to know the bands, the scenes, and what to do in town by meeting ten of city's most exciting homegrown artists.
Treefort Must Fest celebrates its fourteenth edition this year with a lineup that includes Geese, Magdalena Bay, Father John Misty, Samia, and Blondshell.
But glance a bit further down the poster and you'll notice a quite staggering number of names playing the festival this year - around 560 of them. The festival’s approach to curation really begins with the local bookings – and an open call for bands to play. Around 2500 apply, with about half of the lineup coming from that pool; it really is a showcase festival in its truest form.
The five-day event takes over more than 50 venues that spread across the entire Boise downtown area, and it's the undercard that dominates – a perfect encapsulation of the close-knit scene that makes the northwestern city one of the US's most exciting creative hubs right now.
Plum Vision
Boise trio Plum Vision have cemented themselves as a local staple, drawing influences from the best of ‘90s Seattle grunge and modern-day indie rock. Kiyah Amanie (vocals/guitar), Meg Miller (drums/vocals), and Ella Thurston (bass/vocals) have opened up for Xiu Xiu, Bully, Snooper, Trestles, and Forty Feet Tall since the buzz of their 2022 single “Give Girls Money”, and 2024 debut album See U Later, Goodbye. A new EP is due this Spring.
Describe your sound?
It's transformed a lot over the years and as we’ve changed as a group. When we first started back in 2021, we took the majority of our inspiration from the 90’s riot grrrl era with bands like Hole, Veruca Salt, and Bikini Kill. As a new group then, we needed more structure and sound inspiration as opposed to now where we’ve moved into jamming and working with a more femme alternative rock sound that just comes to us freely.
And your live show?
This will be our fifth year playing Treefort and our second time playing at the Neurolux for the fest. People can expect good energy and a variety of pace between our slower heavier sound and our quicker punk side. One thing we love to do is hold a “girls only” mosh pit during our song "Give Girls Money", to open the floor up for those who maybe wouldn’t normally feel comfortable getting into a mosh pit.
What should we listen to first?
"Have it All" is a great introduction to our music as it's a middle ground of our sound, showcasing our punchier in-your-face style with remnants of our more ballad-driven vocals. It has a classic 90’s rock vibe to it with a modern take and easily digestible lyrics.
Tell us about the Boise music scene
It's always been one that encourages new artists to create and share within their community. There’s always opportunity for new musicians to break into the scene and grow their project. Boise also has a great variety of genres as well from punk, country, singer-songwriter, psych-rock, and so many more. Some of the local artists we’ve been enjoying recently are Vexed Vixen, Proxi, and Hit Hit Hit!
What about your memories of Treefort?
The first year of Treefort at Julia Davis Park in 2023 was pretty rough. Rainy weather and new park main stage venue = Mudfort 99. Everyone’s shoes were covered in mud and it was funny to watch people slip around, so if you notice the plastic paneling at the main stage, you now know why it’s there. Over the past few years of playing Treefort we’ve also had the chance to make friends with a lot of wonderful and very talented people from out of state that we still visit and talk to often.
What should we do in town before the music starts?
Boise has great outdoor activities and if you’re into that, the Boise Foothills and the Greenbelt are a couple great places to explore while you’re in town. Idaho weather can be pretty temperamental so definitely keep that in mind when packing! And beware of the geese, during the Spring they are literally everywhere.
Best late night snack and hangover food?
If you're downtown, Pie Hole and Dharma will be your best friends when it comes to a late night snack, but if you’re on your way home Los Betos is a safe bet. Also if nothing else is open and you’re starving, Winco is open 24 hours.
The best hangover food will always be Pho and Pad Thai, but after a long night of Treefort some good places to stop by for breakfast are Cafe Capri or Sarah’s Bagel Cafe.
Plum Vision perform at Neurolux during Treefort Music Fest on 27 March at 5.40pm
McKenna Esteb
A rising voice in Boise, McKenna Esteb weaves raw honesty with soulful storytelling. Since launching her solo project in 2019, she's toured throughout the Northwest and abroad, opening for artists the likes of Thee Sacred Souls, Baby Jake, Krooked Kings, and Sixpence Non the Richer.
Describe your sound?
My sound is like if indie pop, rock soul and norah jones love ballads had a baby. My sound is what it would sound like if bi-panic had a voice.
And your live show?
A mix of high energy and some melty torch ballads. Some surprise gimmicks, booty shaking and queer love. I am honored to say this will be my sixth time playing Treefort! (Fifth with my band).
What should we listen to first?
This is a hard question and I feel like I have recency bias but I would say "Wish I Smoked" because it is our most recent, and then "Love You Forever" because those two are quite different and can show you the range of what to expect out of a concert of ours!
Tell us about the Boise music scene
It's super supportive and creative. Treefort and Duck Club have been a massive help in creating and supporting the scene here. There are so many wonderful creatives. It's a great place to be right now because it's growing so fast and you can really just throw shit at the wall and see what sticks.
It's also small enough where everyone kind of knows of one another and supports one another which is real fun. Definitely go listen to: Maci Mattravers, Hudson Powder Co and Moon Owl's Mages.
What about your memories of Treefort?
After my first Treefort I developed vocal nodules and couldn't sing/perform for six months, it was a huge reset for me. I couldn't talk for two weeks and worked with a vocal coach for half a year to get my voice back to health. By the time I was able to sing again it was just in time for my second Treefort. I had developed a lot of anxiety around singing during that time so I was super nervous but really wanted to perform again.
We played at the Linen Building for Treefort as my first performance back from the injury and it was absolutely packed, people told me there was a line wrapped around the building. The energy inside there was super palpable and my friend designed me a disco two piece to wear for the performance. It was an incredibly special performance and feat coming back from a vocal injury. I will never forget it.
What should we do in town before the music starts?
Do walk in the foothills by Camel's Back; go to random shows of artists you have never heard of and be open because I promise you will find an incredible new artist (ask locals who to see); do yoga at True North (they have free classes the week of Treefort); and buy merch from artists and if you can't afford that follow them on social media and streaming platforms and share their music with friends (it goes a long way)
Don't overdo it at Treefort and make yourself sick, there is so much constantly happening, prioritize what you want to do, let yourself rest, you will always miss something and that's ok! There's always next year. You should also skip the overhyped restaurants (not naming names because I don't wanna get in trouble!).
Best late night snack and hangover food?
For late night, Mulligans lol (trust me); and for hangover, Good Times for bagels and Neckar for coffee.
McKenna Esteb performs at Boise Brewing on 27 March at 8pm
Maci Mattravers
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
Jens Kuross
Seattle-born Jens Kuross moved to Ketchum, Idaho with his family when he was six years old and began his professional music career at the age of 15 when he started drumming for a jazz trio. Last year's album Crooked Songs is mysterious, warm, and heart-stirring record using just voice and electric piano, and its songs suggest an otherworldly naturalism akin to a ghost returning to earth to observe the passing of time, life, and light.
Describe your sound?
Whatever it is at this point it's decidedly mimal. No frills. Just me and a piano or wurli or some such keyboard instrument trying to access a little honesty. Like all artists I'm focused intently on trying to sound like myself but it's doubtful I transcend any of my influences – Tom Waits, Randy Newman, Portishead, Fiona Apple... Maybe my sound is whatever the sound is of trying not to have a sound...is. Trying and not necessarily succeeding I suppose.
And your live show?
My live show will just be me playing a piano and singing. Knowing music festivals I'll probably be in competition with some loud band on a neighboring stage or some rowdy folks trying to order drinks at a bar... But that's part of the fun I guess, testing myself to see if my songwriting and performance craft are sufficiently captivating to wrestle people's attention away from all the noise and booze they would otherwise habitually be distracting themselves with. I win some, I lose some.
What should we listen to first?
I'm not in a position to be too picky here. If you want a taste of what I'm gonna sound like live, listen to anything off of my most recent album Crooked Songs since that is in effect a live album. It's definitely the most uninhibited and raw piece of art I've ever put into the world and really marks where I am at this moment in regards to how I see art and beauty and music. I like to think it found its way into the world right when it needed to and in the fullness of time, will find its way to the right audience as well – hopefully a Treefort audience.
Tell us about the Boise music scene
I'd say Boise definitely punches above its weight when it comes to music scenes. it's not a massive city but it's full of music fans. And while I'm a total snob and can perhaps be a little unnecessarily dismissive of what seems to be an unquenchable thirst for mediocre, blue-grass adjacent jam bands, this place can surprise you with its sophistication as well. The same people thirsting for the jam bands thirst for all kinds of great music. We've got the Boise Phil and Ballet Idaho. I've started a regular jazz night and the music we play there isn't always the most accessible but people turn up for it pretty enthusiastically. Also we've got one of the best indie music festivals in the country. Maybe you've heard of it?
For an Idaho-based artist I'd definitely give a shout out to Frankie Tillo. He's an incredibly unique talent who, more than just about any artist I've ever known, really developed his own voice. Consisting of a blend of maybe Elliot Smith with moments of psychedelia, his songs never conform to traditional song writing forms or tropes and for me that's super refreshing.
What about your memories of Treefort?
Just one where I was playing in five different projects and didn't get a chance to see any music cause I was just running around trying to make soundcheck after soundcheck. I didn't sleep much... I don't even remember what year that was...
What should we do in town before the music starts?
Definitely visit The Reuseum. It's hard to describe what it is but it's unique to Boise and you'd be hard pressed to find another place where you could build a ham radio or a personal computer from scratch using all the used parts they've just got lying around. Definitely do not hang out on Main St between Capitol and 5th St on a Friday night (during the Treefort music fest may be an exception)
Best late night snack and hangover food?
Late night snack? Don't you know that if you eat past 8pm you're putting yourself at risk for heartburn and indigestion? I just down a glass of whole milk and call it a night. Wish I could help you out on hangover food here but believe it or not I've never been hung over!
Jens Kuross performs at Treefort Music Hall on 26 March at 4.50pm
Degler
Zachary Degler's eponymous Boise supergroup takes in bandmates Frankie Tillo on guitar and vocals, Mike Mitchell from Floating Witch’s Head on drums, Davis McDonald from Jan Reed and the In Between on bass, and Max Smay from Brand New Companion on keys.
Describe your sound?
Hmm, to put it simply... we're an energetic experimental indie rock synthy subversive surprise guitar band, featuring down home whimsical nostalgic feelgoodery, juxtaposed against industrial sludge and elements of the absurd and bizarre. At least that's what we're shooting for. I think? Yeah, that sounds right.
And your live show?
I think our live shows provide something unique. An inviting environment that feels like a hang sesh between tunes, with a spectrum of music that can be earnest, sweet and soulful, then menacing or desperate, then delusionally happy or downright silly. This will be our second Treefort with this project, but collectively the members of Degler have probably played over a hundred Treefort sets in various projects
What should we listen to first?
We'll only have a few tunes out, but look for our debut album, dropping 15 May! For our current offerings:If you're looking for hope, put on "Things Are Looking Up". If you're looking for justice and redemption, play "The Devil Bought A Lemon". If you're looking to laugh in the face of death, listen to "It's All The Same Somehow".
Tell us about the Boise music scene
There's some incredible music being made in Boise, and a local scene that takes pride in being fun, safe, and inclusive. Some local favorites: Porcelain Tongue, Brand New Companion, Chief Broom... Jens Kuross is doing some special things. Jesse Blake Rundle is always exploring some cool territory. Frankie's latest solo release is remarkable. Yeah, check out Mishap Records and Earth Libraries!
What about your memories of Treefort?
Oh wow, there are a few. One year, playing with my old band, Mother Yeti, I sprained my ankle loading a Rhodes piano into a gig the week before Treefort. So I crutched all over Boise, and when it came time to play our (very rowdy) show, I plopped down on a sweaty barstool and held on for the ride. Proud to say, our drummer is the only one who fell off his chair that night.
What should we do in town before the music starts?
I love a good spring walk through the North End, over to Hyde Park for some frisbee at Camel's Back. You could venture up to Bogus Basin for a nice hike/bike through the woods. Perhaps always sound advice, but I would say don't show up carrying too many preconceived notions. Our strange little city may surprise you!
Best late night snack and hangover food?
I come from a short line of candy connoisseurs. I love cracking a fat bag of twin snakes after a long trek through the desert, or housing some sour goldbears in the tent back at camp after an evening of playing in the woods. Nature and candy... proof of God?
As it happens, we'll be kicking things off at the Shrine Ballroom on Sunday this year, so a perfect hangover set! Please join us, but before you do, go get you some Andalusion Eggs from Goldy's, or a big fat scone from Merritt's. If ya woke up late, hit Los Reyes de la Torta for the best damn torta you've ever had. Or grab a coffee at Push and Pour, walk the greenbelt and say hi to all the dogs.
Degler performs at Shrine Social Club on 29 March at 4.50pm
Proxi
Four piece Proxi are blending grunge grit with shoegaze atmospherics, channeling the raw energy and texture that harkens back to '90s alternative rock with their own original spin. The band comprise vocalist Violet Frizzell, lead guitarist Kizer Burchard, bassist (and wife of Burchard) Ruth Blodgett Burchard, and Alex Post – the band's drummer who recorded, mixed and mastered the band's first releases out of his bedroom. After releasing two EPs over the course of two years, they signed to local record label Mishap Records and are looking to release their debut album by the summer.
Describe your sound?
We originally formed Proxi to write and record shoegaze, but quickly realized when we all started playing together it wasn't really what we naturally wrote. Over the course of two and a half years of live shows and two releases, I would describe our sound as emotional gritty 90’s alternative rock, with shoegaze undertones - influenced by early Smashing Pumpkins, My Bloody Valentine & the Sundays, Wednesday & Tagabow, as well as an array of local bands. I’m especially excited to see this all really come to fruition for our debut album.
And your live show?
This is our second year playing Treefort, playing the Shrine basement on the first day of the festival this year. I would say we aren’t the most out there band, we just like playing our music and it’s really a special experience for us to share what we all collaborate on. I would hope people can take something away from our live show, whether it be an experience or a sense of validation from my lyrics. I write a lot about self comparison and other personal struggles- while it's not the most positive of things I would hope that putting myself out there like that could maybe strike a chord with someone else in the audience.
What should we listen to first?
For me, our newest album has truly been the biggest culmination of all of the things I have been feeling and growing from for the last few years lyrically. I am also the proudest of my guitar writing in this endeavor. But to be specific, I would recommend our song "Chromatic”. I was inspired to write it because I was listening to a lot of Cyndi Lauper and she has this line that goes “I wanna be the one to walk on the sun” in her song "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun". I could see what she meant figuratively by this and it kind of stuck with me, so it's kind of just a tribute to feeling like I'm not where I wanna be and feeling stuck in my hometown. Kizer's guitar part also rips in my opinion, as well as everyone else they really went off with this one.
Tell us about the Boise music scene
There are so many different bands in Boise, and it's nice because I truly feel like there is always something for anyone. Whether you're into metal, psychedelic rock, funk, beach rock there is something for you and there is always such a strong community for it. Growing up here you kind of just know everyone too, which can also have its downsides haha. But it's nice for the community- which is definitely strong here.
An artist out of Boise I’d have to shout out is Maci Mattravers, her recent album is incredible - It's really beautiful and she has done an amazing job marketing her music as well! Brand New Companion and Porcelain Tongue are insanely good bands with original sounds, they always have such a good live performance and it’s such a good experience.
What about your memories of Treefort?
I just think Treefort is always a good time, so good I can't really remember- I guess that's what makes it a good time haha. I love walking into venues not knowing a band and then walking out with a new love for them. That is definitely something unique to the festival. Last year my favorite performance was Shower Curtain at the Neurolux, they have definitely become one of my heavy influences lately!
What should we do in town before the music starts?
I would absolutely say to take advantage of how bikeable the downtown Boise/north end area is.. especially with the surge in traffic the last few years it would make anything way more fun. Treefort is obviously a great time to come out, but otherwise spring and fall are the best times in my opinion. We get every season really heavily so those really pop off.
Best late night snack and hangover food?
Late night, Toros Tacos in The Shrine, run by a really lovely family and they stay open with the bar hours! Also Pie hole is always a move for a slice of pizza. There's a churro stand that's always really good too when I'm drinking but I don't remember the name.
I love a good diner, so definitely the Capri downtown or Eddies Diner to beat a hangover. Also Good Times Bagels has the best bagels and is owned by the sweetest family - if you're hungover get the Hero!
Proxi performs at Shrine Social Club on 25 March at 5.30pm
Frankie Tillo
Somewhere between Elliott Smith, Paul Simon, and the DIY punk scene that's formed over the last twenty years is where you'll find Frankie Tillo's music. Born in eastern Idaho – in a small town next to a big nuclear facility – he moved to Boise, then gained some notoriety with the band Thick Business. Since then, he has stayed in Boise somehow, and been playing and releasing music that is increasingly less patriotic.
Describe your sound?
Lol Well it’s psychedelic music but not in a reverb guitar way, more so in form and breaking traditional music tendencies, which makes it heady and critical. I think at its core it is hopeful, but not naively so. My songs are deeply rooted in my community and the extreme nature of this place Boise here in Idaho - the prison state.
And your live show?
The live performance can, at times, be very loud and overwhelming, then moments can be quiet and intimate. There will be saxophones and flutes and harmony and maybe even a guitar solo but who’s to say.
What should we listen to first?
Anything off of my most recent release our hopes sold as debt the songs cover a lot of ground just like the live show. Maybe it’s a disadvantage but my music lacks uniformity so just give it a go!
Tell us about the Boise music scene
The scene yearns for more DIY spaces, there are some really astounding experimental/noise projects. That’s where the adage “let’s get Noisey in Boisey” comes from. Mishap Records has many cool Boise bands on it. Trauma Kit, and John Gorbus reign supreme when it comes to live performances. The Boise music scene can be described as being too much of a good thing.
What should we do in town before the music starts?
It’s a long drive from anywhere, I know, but try to leave some time to swim in the Boise River or take a walk in the foothills.
Best late night snack and hangover food?
Hans Chimaek for sure, bring a friend and split a box of fried chicken or tofu! I think soup is the best hangover food I’d go get pho, My friend says “it’s like a shower for your insides.”
Frankie Tillo performs at the Shrine Social Club Ballroom on 28 March at 4.10pm
Ealdor Bealu
Progressive heavy-psych/stoner-rock quartet Ealdor Bealu were formed in the high desert of Boise in 2015 and dropped their first full-length album Dark Water at the Foot of the Mountain in 2017. Last year, they celebrated their tenth anniversary with a two-hour career-spanning performance at Treefort.
Describe your sound?
Over the past 11 years, Ealdor Bealu has developed a sound very much their own, but also a reflection of the natural world around them. Hailing from the high desert of Boise, Idaho and with a focus on shifting dynamics from the massive to the minimalistic, the band blends elements of heavy psychedelia, stoner rock, progressive metal, and atmospheric story-telling into a mosaic of sonic praise to honor their Western home.
And your live show?
Ealdor Bealu delivers a sincere and visceral experience in the live setting, holding close the audience and weaving the moment into their diverse body of work. The band has played every iteration of Treefort Music Fest since their debut show in 2016, making them one of the most consistent and storied features in Boise’s greatest festival tradition.
What should we listen to first?
We actually just met new friends at the All Them Witches show last weekend and were asked this very question! We collectively agreed on "Behold the Sunrise", one of our most beloved songs from our 2017 debut album Dark Water at the Foot of the Mountain. The song delivers a beautiful blend of haunting atmospheric passages, stunning vocals, cascading guitar melodies, and the dynamic changes from everything to nothing that Ealdor Bealu have made their calling card for the past decade and counting.
Tell us about the Boise music scene
The music scene, much like the Treasure Valley as a whole, is expanding at record levels. New venues like Shrine Social Club, Realms Arcade, and Treefort Music Hall have greatly impacted the amount and quality of touring bands to hit Boise like never before. Years ago it was hard to get decent turnouts for many shows, and sellouts were nearly unheard of. Now multiple shows can sell out on a single night, crowds are eager and supportive, and especially the youngsters are turning up in full force.
Boise Bands to know: Crush the Monster, Shadow & Claw, Ghorot, Larkspur, Possessive, Throes, Onsetter, Ingrown, Barn, Moon Owl’s Mages.
What about your memories of Treefort?
So many memories flood in… From seeing such amazing headliner acts like TV on the Radio, Funkadelic, Chelsea Wolfe, and Thundercat to intimate, singular moments like NIN guitarist Robin Finck, Willis Earl Beal, Federale, and local folk collective Wend, Treefort delivers an experience that leaves you speechless every year.
What should we do in town before the music starts?
Enjoy historic downtown Boise, hike the Foothills, explore the Boise River. Drive up to Garden Valley or Idaho City for the day, the clean mountain air and the wind blowing through the pines can cure any ill.
Best late night snack and hangover food?
Although Boise isn’t much of a “late night town”, there are still some solid options. The new Toros Tacos in the basement of Shrine Social Club is incredible, the crush wrap is insane! Pie Hole, open till the crack of dawn, is a staple for slices and beers.
Soooo many great breakfast options for hangovers! The Capri is a classic diner joint. Bad Boy Burgers has one of the best breakfast burritos in town. Bardenay has salmon benedict on lock and the diablo sangria off the secret menu is the best breakfast drink ever. Lost Grove in Hyde Park has a crazy diverse breakfast menu and an A+ Michelada. Recover and prepare for another night of madness!
Ealdor Bealu performs at Neurolux on 26 March at 11.30pm
John Gorbus
We've written extensively about John Gorbus, Boise's most chaotic, exciting, and challenging band. A sprawling DIY collective with one of the best live shows you'll ever see (or the worst depending on your stomach for noise and food-throwing) they were a highlight of the last two editions of Treefort and their show on the festival's second night will be a rite of passage that Gorbus virgins will never recover from.
Describe your sound?
We are without genre. We play what we want, using any style to accomplish the mood we are targeting. Depending on the set it might be four noise punk songs followed by a slam song into an art pop ballad ending with a heavenly orchestral crescendo. The very next set might be an egg punk song into seven minutes of harsh noise, a poem, too long of silence and a last song that captures the feeling of staying for the ending credits of a particularly sad Wes Anderson movie. We are bug music for assholes, happy songs for the most depraved, poop sounds that make you shiver, lullabies for awkward maniacs, love poems no one asked for and very few people want.
And your live show?
We try our hardest to break expectations, mostly for ourselves. We get bored too easily and every show reflects our here-then-there mentality. We've written plays set to music, we've destroyed cars, levelled offices, broken down crying in small rooms. sometimes you should show up in your least precious clothes, prepared to leave covered in cake, paint, shaving cream and unidentifiable liquids. Other times show up ready to sit down and be held by whoever happens to be next to you as we explore the aching of being a person. Our live shows are often loud, usually messy, sometimes tragic, hopefully beautiful and devastatingly true to something difficult to explain yet seemingly universal.
What should we listen to first?
"i love you stupid" off the album John Gorbus Inc. That's the one. We love you stupid. It is fundamentally real in everything we do. It's not a song we play every show, it isn't even a song that captures the biggest range of our work, but it is one we come back to. It's a song that holds the ethos of our entire project. A desperate longing to itch the ever itchy part of our humanity that breaks our hearts every time we step outside. It's only on Bandcamp. Fuck Spotify. Also, go watch the YouTube video THANK YOU - JOHN GORBUS available on PoserFlm's channel.
Tell us about the Boise music scene
Small but growing. Existing in the backwash of a red state. We love Porcelain Tongue. We love Trauma Kit. We love Necrotizing.
What about your memories of Treefort?
Our first Treefort, one member got a finger infection and had to have a ring ripped off his finger with pliers. We got an oat in someone's eye. For some of us that was our first time playing a show live. Our second Treefort we dumped gallons of oats into the wedges of Shrine Social Club. Because we did that, the staff decided to hang, by noose, a cardboard cutout of one of the band members. We are playing the same venue this year. We may or may not have oats.
What should we do in town before the music starts?
Graffiti as much as you can. Go sit by the river and smile. Go to Los Betos late at night and get a burrito. Close down the bar at Neurolux. Go play a video game at Realms Arcade. Don't stay here too long.
Best late night snack and hangover food?
Los Betos has good burritos and is cheap and is yummy. California Mexican is here too, they have free coffee. Blue Sky Bagels has a great dumpster if you want free bagel. Winco is a grocery store open 24/7. Adelitas Mexican Food is an awesome place with a Mexican market open until midnight. There aren't a lot of late night options.
For hangovers: Cafe Capri is a diner. Big momosa. Big chicken fried steak. Big rotating chicken on the sign. What's not to like? Come on.
John Gorbus plays at the Shrine Social Club Ballroom on 26 March at 5pm
Brand New Companion
A rock band 'drawing inspiration from the greatest rock bands of all time', Brand New Companion combine blasting guitars, screaming pedal steel, psychedelic keyboards, thumping bass, and drums that beat in time with the heart of the American heartland. They're somewhere between Metallica and someone you’ve never heard of, apparently.
Describe your sound?
Loud rock music! We are big fans of Neil Young and Wilco
And your live show?
We are looking forward to playing a lot of new songs. We’ve been working on our new record and are excited to start sharing them. At Treefort a few of the new songs will be played. This is our second Treefort, Boise really comes alive during this time so it’s always great to be apart of it
What should we listen to first?
"Pistol": As far as songs from our first record go, this song holds up as one of the most fun songs to play live.
Tell us about the Boise music scene
Boise has a great music community. Getting started in the scene here felt very welcoming, with the people we met and the relationships we could foster through playing together. A lot of the other bands in town are our best friends here and there are almost too many bands that we love to list but to name a few; Chief Broom, Proxi, Porcelain Tongue, Frankie Tillo, Trauma Kit, Maci Mattravers… all GOATed if you ask me!
What should we do in town before the music starts?
Definitely enjoy some river time, maybe bring a six pack from Bert’s brewing down to the river and relax crazy hard. Make sure you stay away from mulligans unless you’re looking for the best night of your life.
Best late night snack and hangover food?
Cosmic Crepes. Right outside Mulligan’s. And for hangovers, Goldsteins and Capri are both awesome.
Brand New Companion play the Shrine Social Club - Ballroom on 27 March at 4.40pm
Treefort Music Fest runs from 25-29 March; find out more at treefortmusicfest.com
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