Daunting Task Ahead: Battling Impostor Syndrome Despite Fan Perception

Jakob Nowell recently delved into the challenging task of stepping into his father’s shoes by taking Bradley’s place in front of Sublime in 2023. Initially met with skepticism from fans, Jakob proved that the magic of music runs deep within the family genes. However, the thought of releasing a new album seemed like a distant dream. The band’s 1996 self-titled LP, released after Bradley’s passing, was thought to be their final studio effort, featuring hits like What I Got, Santeria, Wrong Way, and Doin’ Time. But as Jakob continued to perform with Sublime, more fans began to embrace the idea of new music.

Their latest single “Ensenada” is set to pave the way for a full-length album, and Jakob reveals that the process involved combing through the band’s catalog to capture the essence of what defines Sublime. Drawing inspiration from his uncle Miguel, who once told him to create a “spellbook” and burn it when finished, Jakob learned the importance of chaos, fun, and camaraderie while jamming with friends Bud Gaugh and Eric Wilson.

Maintaining the authenticity of Sublime’s sound, many of the new tracks are born from fragments that Bradley left behind. Jakob describes the experience of uncovering these musical gems as akin to being an archaeologist, a journey that holds deep personal meaning for him. The band’s goal is not to reinvent the wheel but to pay homage to the legacy of Sublime in a genuine and heartfelt way.

While Jakob acknowledges that creating new music under the Sublime banner may not be groundbreaking, he emphasizes his respect for what came before him. Each song is crafted with care and emanates from a place of sincerity and love. By building on the foundation laid by his late father and bandmates, Jakob aims to honor the band’s roots while infusing their music with a fresh perspective.

Reflecting on the influence of Sublime’s back catalog, Jakob notes that his experience as both a songwriter and a fan has been transformative. Having been a fan of many bands from the same era as Sublime, Jakob understands the delicate balance of staying true to the band’s roots while exploring new creative avenues. Instead of reinventing the wheel, Sublime’s approach involves revisiting old unreleased material and using it as a springboard for their new compositions.

Jakob’s personal connection to Sublime’s music dates back to his teenage years, where songs like Pawn Shop and Boss DJ held special significance for him. The band’s old jams and unreleased material, previously locked away due to contractual obligations, now serve as a source of inspiration and reflection for Jakob as he navigates his role within the band.

As Sublime continues to evolve and grow, Jakob remains committed to preserving the band’s legacy while forging his own path as an artist. Through a combination of reverence for the past and a forward-thinking approach to music-making, Sublime’s latest chapter stands as a testament to the enduring power of musical legacy and familial influence.