Artist Biography

We've been compared to Gram Parsons & Emmylou Harris," says Benjamin. "I think we're more like Lucy and Ricky," adds Courtney. The dynamic duo of Courtney Kaiser and Benjamin Cartel, KaiserCartel, formed when the two Brooklyn based musicians joined forces to tour the country in the summer of 2004. Crammed into their Toyota Prius named Gertie filled with instruments, thrift store finds, and their furry friends "The Crayons", KaiserCartel has been touring regionally and nationally ever since.

Courtney started her career at age 2 singing "I am a lonely little petunia in an onion patch" in Indianapolis, Indiana and has continued music throughout the rest of her life. She has studied opera, Indian classical music, and the folk music of South Africa. Courtney gets her inspiration from having no biological roots and her psychic ability to predict her breakups. Courtney has played with United States Three, The Prom, John Mellencamp, Sean Lennon and has recorded with The Wallflowers. 

Benjamin started his career by transcribing Black Sabbath"s "Iron man" So that he could play it on the saxophone in the sixth grade. From there, he switched to the drums and played at his high school talent night in the only band that got thrown off the stage due to the amount of uncontrollable slam dancing! Benjamin gets his inspiration from crowded subway stations, local watering holes, and New York Femme Fatales. He has played with The Heartdrops, Zombie Squad, and Benjamin Cartel. 

KaiserCartel have a genuine, homespun, sound that is all their own. "Eclectic, infectious, music," are the words Benjamin uses to describe their lo-fi, song-driven style. "We want people to feel like a fly on the wall in our living room," says Courtney. Whether you come in the middle of the set or come right from the start, by the end of listening to their music, you will be crying, laughing, and will have that warm feeling you get from spending time with close friends. 

KaiserCartel's earthy blend of folk and rock will make you laugh, cry, sing along, and want to hold hands with the stranger next to you. Warm up by the fire with KaiserCartel.

Music Influences

Alternative Links

• Band Site