Sublime: A New Era Begins with "Ensenada" as Jakob Nowell Steps Up

Sublime is an American ska punk, reggae rock, and alternative rock band that originally formed in Long Beach, California, in 1988. The classic lineup consisted of Bradley Nowell (vocals, guitar), Eric Wilson (bass), and Bud Gaugh (drums). They rose to prominence in the 1990s with their unique fusion of punk rock's raw energy with reggae and ska's laid-back rhythms, along with elements of hip-hop, dub, and blues. Following Bradley Nowell's tragic death in 1996, the band initially disbanded.

However, in 2023, original members Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh reunited, and crucially, Jakob Nowell, Bradley Nowell's son, stepped into the role of lead vocalist and guitarist. This reformation of Sublime, with Jakob at the helm, has been met with significant excitement, leading to major festival appearances and new music. Jakob brings his own distinct charm while honoring his father's legacy and the band's iconic sound.

"Ensenada" is the very first original song written and released by the reunited Sublime with Jakob Nowell as frontman. It was officially released on July 18, 2025, and is the lead single from their highly anticipated upcoming new album, which will be their first studio album since their self-titled 1996 release. A music video for "Ensenada" was also released, featuring performance footage, studio moments, and a touching closing image of Bradley Nowell holding baby Jakob.

Lyrically, "Ensenada" encapsulates the signature Sublime vibe with a touch of melancholy. Jakob Nowell describes the lyrics as being inspired by personal experiences with love and relationships, particularly when things "go south." He explains the use of absurdism as a "defense mechanism to escape the intense, challenging feelings" that arise during relationship difficulties. While it features some provocative and direct lines (e.g., "I don't wanna be your man no more / I wanna make love to a whore"), these are delivered within the context of the band's long-standing tradition of wit, craziness, and raw honesty, reflecting a kind of liberating "sleazeball summer anthem."

Band Page: https://www.instagram.com/sublime/?hl=en