The Matriarch

The Matriarch is a queer, indie-rock/folk pop band based out of Bloomington, IN. The band consists of Mal Babcock (drums), Mal Benoit (guitar), Jo Hockemeyer (bass), and Trevor Webb (keys). The band’s origins are one of cosmic coincidence- an unexpected knee injury during the height of the pandemic gave space for the members to experiment with a new creative outlet: music. Their determination to grow together musically and to create a safe, inclusive space for the LGBTQIA+ community made them darlings of the Bloomington music scene. Two years later, the band has played over 75 shows across the Midwest, opening for contemporaries including Kid Sistr, Okey Dokey, Busman’s Holiday and Glad Rags.

In their debut EP “Welcome To The Matriarch,” the band beckons listeners kindly into their musical home, exploring community, growth and the beauty of being a beginner. In their album “Be Safe, I Love You,” they throw open all the doors and windows to let sunlight touch the corners of every room. Vines grow tenderly on the walls, and it’s okay if the floors get a little wet from warm summer rain. The Matriarch pushes the boundaries of their sound, weaving together glittery synths, guitar dripping in reverb, and triumphant vocal layers, complete with a cool assuredness that comes with comfort in their craft. Nothing is off limits to sing about- The Matriarch explores climate anxiety and kick-ass cowgirls amongst new revelations about friendship and love. The band’s new single, ‘The End’, is out now on all streaming platforms.