The US reggae-punk/alternative rock trio Sublime have released a new single entitled ‘Ensenada’.
Marking a significant milestone for the band, it is the first song written by the trio together since Jakob Nowell – son of founding frontman Bradley Nowell – stepped into the role of lead vocalist and guitarist in late 2023, joining his uncles and band co-founders Bud Gaugh (drums) and Eric Wilson (bass).
Encapsulating the signature Sublime sound and vibe with lyrics that match the wit and craziness of the band’s earlier material, ‘Ensenada’ is also melancholic, reflecting on personal experience of loving relationships and exploring emotions. Nowell describes the use of absurdism in his lyrics as a defence mechanism to escape the intense, challenging feelings that arise when a relationship goes south.
‘Ensenada’ is produced by Jon Joseph (BØRNS) and is the first single to be issued from a highly anticipated new album by the band.
“’Ensenada’ and other new music we’re working on is inspired by old Sublime material,” states Nowell. “You can’t match something from that ‘90s era, as it was such a moment in time. This feels like an epilogue, a thank you to all our fans and everyone who’s supported us. Our goal with this single was not to replicate anything, but from my perspective it’s more like a tribute to my uncles Bud and Eric and the inspiration they give me. It’s organic and we have a good time. We did a bunch of jams, dived into the back catalogue, and the more it felt like fun – throwing it all together and seeing what sticks – the more we knew it was the right move. Creating genuine music that reflects your life and times…people tap into that, and then you look around and realise, wow, look at all the love we’ve found.”
Having made his live debut with Sublime at Coachella 2024, Nowell, Gaugh and Wilson performed at another 20 festivals and shows across North America by the end of the year. They also made their late-night television debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, played a four song set on the Howard Stern Show and enjoyed their first Top 10 hit since 1997 on alternative radio with ‘Feel Like That’, a single that featured the vocals of both Jakob and his father.
2025 has been even busier, with headlining US shows and more high-profile festival slots to support the release of their forthcoming new album. These include a home town set in Long Beach, CA at the Vans Warped Tour on 26th July, almost three decades after the original line-up played at its very first incarnation. A takeover called ‘Fear, Loathing, and Sublime in Las Vegas’ will take place at the Park MGM between 14th-17th August, the multi-night event featuring live sets from Sublime as well as punk powerhouses Pennywise, The Vandals and more. A full list of upcoming shows that contains these and other live dates can be found HERE.
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