Iconic Long Beach, CA reggae-punk/alternative-rock band Sublime was founded in 1988 by Bradley Nowell (vocals/guitar), Eric Wilson (bass/vocals) and Bud Gaugh (drums). The radio exposure of the 40oz. to Freedom classic “Date Rape” led to a deal with MCA who released the band’s sophomore effort Robbin’ the Hood in 1994. It revealed an experimental ethic more in keeping with cut-and-paste dub than the well-tuned rage of the Cali punk revival. Featuring the Sublime favorites “Pool Shark,” “Greatest-Hits,” “Saw Red,” feat. Gwen Stefani, “STP,” and “Boss D.J.”, the album set the stage for the breakout success of their self-titled third album.

“The singular sound of Sublime, alternately polished and rough and ready, finds stoner rock, rap, punk, and hip-hop funk blended with doses of ska, rock steady, dancehall, and every other pungent flavor of reggae. The result was a beautiful, warts-and-all brand of poetry – a powerful new blend of street sounds and party music. In Nowell, Sublime had as astounding singer and lyricist who created his own edgy but expressive underground vernacular. And in Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh, Sublime was fortunate to have an agile, rock-solid rhythm section that could cover the entire musical waterfront.” – David Wild