After proving they could still shake the reggae-punk/alternative rock universe without a major-label safety net, Sublime are stepping into a new era—this time with Atlantic Records in their corner. The Southern California icons, now fronted by Jakob Nowell, are gearing up for their first full-length album with him at the helm, arriving later this year. The move comes after an eyebrow-raising independent streak that saw them dominate alternative radio, not just flirt with it—racking up record-breaking chart runs and outpacing even their own ’90s benchmarks. Having already proven they don’t need a safety net, Sublime now enter their next era with leverage, momentum, and nothing to prove.
“Atlantic told us that if we signed with them they would pay for my experimental cosmetic surgery to have the body of a goat and the head of a goat. They seem like real straight shooters, and their office has bowls of Halloween candy dated March of last year, but it still tasted fine to me. We’re gonna change California music history or die trying.”
— Jakob Nowell, Sublime (dictated but not read)
“You have no idea how many records I had growing up as a kid watching them spin around and around with the Atlantic Records label on them. Everything from AC/DC to Zeppelin, and so many others! I am beyond excited to announce this partnership with Atlantic Records and Sublime!! So Get Ready! Here comes some new stuff for your ears to hears!”
— Bud Gaugh, Sublime
“So great to partner with Atlantic Records finally! I’m excited about our new album; it truly is an organic Sublime album…can’t wait for people to hear it.”
— Eric Wilson, Sublime
“When Sublime began releasing new music, I sat down with the band and our team at Regime and we made a very intentional decision to release the first few singles ourselves. Between our label division at Regime and Joe Escalante’s past experience owning Kung Fu Records, we had the infrastructure in place. Most importantly, we wanted the band to stay in control of their music.
The band put tremendous trust in us, and we weren’t going to let them down. There was no additional financial upside for us in taking on the extra work as the label — nor were we looking for one. When ‘Ensenada’ hit #1 at Alternative radio, that was more than enough reward. It was a defining moment for all of us and Sublime’s legacy.
That success brought a wave of calls about the album’s future. Truthfully, I never assumed we would end up at a major label. But we took the meetings. Before sitting down with anyone, we had already outlined what a partnership would need to look like. After meeting with Atlantic, we all walked out knowing we had found the right home. The passion, the energy, and the commitment Johnny, Chris, Elliot, and the entire team showed made it clear — this was the right place for the next chapter of Sublime."
— Kevin Zinger, Sublime Management + Regime Music Group
“Working with Sublime again feels like coming home. I was there in the early days, so helping guide this new chapter means a lot to me personally. It’s also special to be reunited with Kevin Zinger — we’ve shared a long history with this band and this music.
As things came together, we had plenty of opportunities, but it ultimately came down to people. After meeting with Atlantic, we all looked at each other and knew — these are the people. There’s real respect for Sublime’s legacy and real belief in where they’re going next. I’m excited for what we’re building together.”
— Joe Escalante, Sublime Management + Regime Music Group
“Sublime’s impact on music and culture is undeniable, and this next chapter carries the same fearless punk rock ethos that made them iconic. They have been one of my all-time favorite bands, so this is a defining moment for me personally. We’re honored they chose Atlantic Records to help drive this new era forward.”
— Johnny Minardi, Atlantic Records
Check out five of the best Sublime videos below:
Photo credit: Josh Kim
