Sublime Collaborates with Bradley Nowell’s Son on New Album
The legendary ska-punk band Sublime, renowned for their impactful music since the late ’80s, is embarking on a new musical journey by working with Jakob Nowell, the son of their late frontman, Bradley Nowell. This announcement comes as the band expresses enthusiasm about writing and recording new tracks together.
A New Chapter for Sublime
Jakob Nowell, who is now 29, has stepped into his father’s former role, joining Sublime in a significant collaboration that began officially in late 2023. Producers Travis Barker, the drummer of Blink-182, and John Feldmann, known for his work with pop-punk groups like Good Charlotte and 5 Seconds of Summer, are also involved in the project. The band anticipates the release of their first single in the summer, generating excitement among fans.
A Legacy and New Beginnings
Travis Barker remarked on the influence Sublime had on his musical journey, stating that their 1992 album, 40 Oz. to Freedom, profoundly altered his perception of music. Similarly, John Feldmann expressed that contributing to Sublime’s revival has been one of the highlights of his career.
Jakob Nowell’s Journey
Before taking the stage with Sublime, Jakob performed publicly for the first time at a fundraiser concert for H.R., a lead member of the influential hardcore punk band Bad Brains. His journey as frontman further included memorable performances at notable festivals, such as Coachella, followed by a series of other festival dates alongside founding members Bud Gaugh and Eric Wilson. Gaugh and Wilson have a rich history with the band that dates back to its inception with Bradley Nowell, who tragically passed away from a heroin overdose shortly before the release of Sublime’s self-titled album, which later achieved quintuple-platinum status.
A Personal Connection to the Past
Jakob Nowell previously shared his hesitance to perform with his father’s former bandmates, citing his own musical pursuits and the complex emotions surrounding his father’s legacy. However, after what he described as a “spiritual pilgrimage” to the theater where Bradley Nowell held his final performance, he felt compelled to embrace this opportunity.
Upcoming Performances
Sublime is set to hit the road this summer, with concert dates scheduled, including an appearance at the BeachLife festival in Redondo Beach on May 3. Fans of the band and new listeners alike are eagerly awaiting the fresh sounds from this evolving lineup.