American Aquarium Delivers ‘Vignettes of the American Experience’ on “New Ways to Lose”, Their 20th Album in 20 Years (Exclusive)

**BJ Barham Reflects on Two Decades of Storytelling in American Aquarium’s 20th Album**

In a career spanning two decades, BJ Barham, frontman of American Aquarium, has woven a rich tapestry of narratives that resonate deeply with listeners. As he prepares to celebrate the release of the band’s 20th album, titled *New Ways to Lose*, Barham emphasises that every musical endeavour begins with one fundamental element—storytelling.

Barham, now 42, points out that real-life experiences have always been at the heart of his songwriting. “Everything starts with a story,” he shares. Over the years, American Aquarium has amassed a significant following, driven by the band’s extensive touring and a diverse catalogue that captures various facets of the contemporary American experience. For Barham, the significance of a song lies in its authenticity; it must reflect something deeply real.

*New Ways to Lose* is a culmination of Barham’s reflections on his roots and the rapidly changing landscape of America, particularly in small towns. The album comprises ten tracks, each exploring the various challenges facing communities that Barham feels are slipping away from their authentic identities as they grapple with modern transformations. “I think any time you write songs about understanding the world around you, you find a better understanding of yourself,” he explains.

The inspiration for the album’s title stems from an often-lighthearted phrase within North Carolina State University’s football culture, where fans describe innovative yet heartbreakingly familiar ways to lose a game. Initially intended as a humorous nod, the phrase gradually took on a more somber meaning as Barham delved deeper into the themes of the record. “Once I started looking at it in the whole scope of the record, then it became a lot more sad,” he admits.

Throughout the album, Barham confronts the erosion of community spaces and the disconnect that arises as small towns struggle to maintain their identities. He addresses how the economic realities of these areas can even undermine locally cherished establishments. The album’s opener, “Dollar General,” serves as a poignant reflection on this theme. With its heartland rock influences, the song questions the economic resilience of small towns that now see national chains as their retail lifelines. Barham articulates the symbolic weight of the Dollar General brand, stating, “When I make a reference to the Dollar General, they know exactly where I’m at, what I’m talking about, and the kind of people I’m talking about.”

Barham’s musical inspirations are deeply rooted in iconic artists, particularly Bruce Springsteen. The legendary New Jersey rocker has been instrumental in shaping Barham’s approach to storytelling. While he acknowledges the similarities between their styles, Barham is keen to highlight American Aquarium’s distinct voice. With encouragement from producer Shooter Jennings to embrace those similarities rather than shy away from them, Barham has crafted an album that reflects both homage and originality.

American Aquarium’s enduring identity as a southern rock band resonates throughout *New Ways to Lose*, incorporating elements like pedal steel guitar that have become hallmarks of their sound. With 20 albums to their name, Barham expresses pride in their musical journey, recognising the evolution of his voice and perspective along the way.

Reflecting on a pivotal moment in his career, Barham recalls the release of *Burn.Flicker.Die.*, the group’s breakthrough album in 2012. He acknowledges the naivety of his younger self, stating, “The Burn.Flicker.Die BJ couldn’t see past his own two feet in front of himself.” Now, as a father and an influential figure in Americana, his outlook has shifted dramatically. He speaks about the lessons learned and the growth achieved, asserting that “if you’re not growing, you’re doing something wrong.” This newfound awareness is evident in his latest work, as he looks both inward and outward, seeking to serve as a guide for others through his music.

With a resounding sense of gratitude, Barham concludes, “I know who I am. I’m thankful for knowing who I am, and I can only control what I can control.” *New Ways to Lose* encapsulates Barham’s journey—one of self-discovery, reflection, and a profound commentary on the world around him. Available on all major streaming platforms, the album is poised to resonate with listeners who seek connection through storytelling.

As American Aquarium continues its evolution, Barham’s commitment to authenticity in songwriting remains unwavering, ensuring that the voices of small-town America are not just heard, but also celebrated.