Artist Spotlight: Kid Jerusalem

Kid Jerusalem

With the changing tides of the music industry and the emergence of the DIY method, it has become harder and harder for bands to differentiate themselves from the competition. Although it has become easier to connect with fans, distribute material, and generate a presence, it is still hard to break that barrier with fans because of all the other bands competing for the same attention.  So in order to be successful and establish a true, loyal fan base, the artist has to really have all of the right elements.

Kid Jerusalem is one of those bands that have the complete package. I remember the first time I saw them play, sharing the stage with Bayside at The Chance in Poughkeepsie, NY. Playing a great show is the perfect way to gain potential fans; it’s keeping those fans interested that several artists have trouble with. Kid Jerusalem has immense talent and the necessary passion behind their music that is sure to take them to amazing places. Their catchy melodies and upbeat tempos coupled with their developed stage presence is exactly what fans want to see and hear. By establishing themselves online, talking directly to fans, and offering their newest release for free, the members of Kid Jerusalem are taking the right steps forward.

The “Warship” release available through Bandcamp, is one of the most professional releases I’ve heard in a very long time. The quality of the recording is excellent and it really captures the energy of the band. Their sound is reminiscent of a little Coheed and Cambria mixed with a variety of other influences. One of their best songs off the “Warship” EP is entitled “Leftside.” This track offers the listener a variety of different sounds. Starting with a slower tempo, the song erupts midway through and gives way to a multitude of technicalities. The other tracks off the EP are definitely worth listening to. The entire EP is put together really well.

I had the opportunity to interview the band recently to see what they’ve been through. It’s always helpful to get into the minds of established musicians to see how they’ve managed to progress in such an uncertain time for the industry. Guitarist Steve Guigliano shared that a strong support system and networking opportunities with other bands in their community have contributed to their overall success.

“One band would help you book a show, you’d play that, and meet another local promoter there, exchange info, and so on and so forth. Playing at local venues too. The owners/promoters eventually will begin contacting you with show offers, and then you start that same process there, constantly networking with the people and bands you meet.”

The positive feedback from fans has kept this particular band grounded and has provided them with rewarding experiences and future opportunities. Guigliano explained that although it can be incredibly rewarding, being an artist and doing what is right for the band can be tricky to figure out because not everyone has the best intentions. Dealing with dishonest people and learning how to treat the band as a business are all issues that nearly everyone in the music industry faces. It’s learning how to deal with certain problems that will arise that could take practice. As Frascogna states in “This Business of Artist Management,” “You can’t die in a ditch over every issue. In other words, pick your fights carefully.”

As for future plans, Kid Jerusalem is planning to send out “Warship” to a few labels while simultaneously writing their first full length album.  

Frascogna, X. M., & Hetherington, H. L. (2004). This business of artist management (4th ed.). New York: Billboard Books.