American Aquarium confirmed for London's Black Deer in the City

For nearly twenty years, American Aquarium has carved out a distinctive space where raw, anthemic rock collides with deeply personal, socially aware songwriting. Led by frontman BJ Barham, the North Carolina band has always aimed to create music that grips you with its energy, then lingers with its truth — the kind of songs that feel cathartic in the moment and meaningful long after. On their latest album, The Fear of Standing Still, American Aquarium takes that mission to new heights, delivering their most powerful and unflinching work yet.

Recorded live at Los Angeles’ famed Sunset Sound with producer Shooter Jennings, The Fear of Standing Still blends searing riffs and driving rhythms with Barham’s most fearless writing to date. The album explores themes of growing up, generational change, and the complexities of Southern identity, all while capturing the freight-train energy of the band’s live show. From the defiant blast of “Crier,” which dismantles toxic masculinity, to the poignant, pro-choice narrative of “Babies Having Babies,” American Aquarium balances visceral rock-and-roll with lyrics that challenge and illuminate.

Joined by bandmates Shane Boeker (guitar), Neil Jones (pedal steel), Rhett Huffman (keys), Ryan Van Fleet (drums), and Alden Hedges (bass), Barham leads a band that feels as urgent as ever. Songs like “Southern Roots” and “Cherokee Purples” reflect his dedication to telling stories that honor the past while pushing for a more just future. With The Fear of Standing Still, American Aquarium proves that rock music can still stir the soul, spark conversation, and bring people together in moments of shared truth.

In October the full band is over for an exclusive English festival show:

25/10: London, UK - Black Deer In The City