Alternative country band brings gutsy twang to Columbia
A bit less bluegrass than the Avett Brothers and a bit more country than Corey Smith, American Aquarium frequents Columbia with its heartfelt lyrics and unique mix of influences. The six-man band will be playing at The House in Five Points with Cary Ann Hearst and Adam Glover Saturday at 9 p.m.
American Aquarium has released five albums, a solid number for a band that started in 2006. The lead singer, songwriter and guitarist BJ Barham described the band as comprised of “punk-rock kids [who] play country.”
This group presents a new mesh of many different types of music and a look into what alternative country rock could become in the future. With an emphasis on creating meaningful lyrics without losing quality musicianship, American Aquarium gathers influence from many different artists outside of the country realm. Artists such as Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen and Drive-By Truckers are significant sources of inspiration for the band and its sundry sound, easily recognized throughout the lyrics of the band’s songs.
Drawing from a variety of life experiences, Barham writes lyrics describing lost love in the song “I Hope He Breaks Your Heart” and the battle for fatherly approval in “Brother, Oh Brother.” The band, whose members met at North Carolina State University, has a sound as diverse as its lyrics and ranges from soothing acoustic numbers to pedal steel guitar-driven songs.
This Saturday, long-time friend Cary Ann Hearst of Charleston, who contributed to background vocals on their last album “Small Town Hymns,” will accompany American Aquarium on stage.
“She is one of our favorites [to perform with],” Barham said.
Hearst adds a raspy sound to Barham’s powerful voice. These elements bring out the band’s alternative side.
The Raleigh natives are not only currently working on their sixth album but are also friends of the road, with over 700 shows played and counting. This impressive touring schedule, which reached 38 states in 2010 alone, is fostered by a strong work ethic and a love for touring and fans.
“Columbia is one of our favorite places in the South, and we’re excited to be coming back,” Barham said.
Their last two albums, “Dances for the Lonely” and “Small Town Hymns,” were produced under a small record label out of Little Rock, Ark., called Last Chance Records. Despite being tied to a label, their small-town feel and down-to-earth disposition persists, while the quality of their material remains impressive. Undoubtedly, these six guys have a lot of talent, but more importantly, they have a love for music that is evident during their performances. This talent has also allowed them to play with some notable musicians such as Charlie Daniels Band, Corey Smith and one of their biggest influences, the Drive-By Truckers.
Be sure to catch the up-and-coming act this Saturday at The House. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show starts at 9 p.m. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 the day of the show. American Aquarium’s music can be found on iTunes, with merchandise available at the show as well as online at americanaquarium.net.