SUBLIME, the California trailblazers whose fusion of punk, ska, reggae and hip-hop helped define a generation, will make their long-awaited Australian debut at Bluesfest in 2026. The band reunites founding members Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh with Jakob Nowell—son of late frontman Bradley Nowell—for their first-ever performances on Australian soil.
Alongside their Bluesfest appearance, SUBLIME have also announced two special sideshows in Melbourne and Sydney, which are expected to sell out quickly as fans rush to witness their historic return.
JD sat down with Jakob Nowell from Sublime for the Everblack Podcast to talk about their upcoming spot at Byron Bay Bluesfest and additional sideshows, carrying on his father’s legacy and the best method to repel drop bears.
Watch/listen to the interview here:
Sublime are one of the most influential American bands of the 1990s, known for their trailblazing blend of punk, ska, reggae and hip-hop. Formed in Long Beach, California by Bradley Nowell, Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh, the trio crafted a sound that became synonymous with an entire generation. With over 20 million records sold and timeless hits like What I Got, Santeria and Wrong Way, Sublime’s catalogue remains a testament to their ability to fuse laid-back grooves with raw punk attitude and honest, street-level storytelling.
While Bradley Nowell’s passing in 1996 cut short the band’s original run, Sublime’s influence has only grown, inspiring countless artists and maintaining a devoted global fanbase.
Now, for the first time ever, Sublime are set to tour Australia in 2026. Original members Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh will be joined by Jakob Nowell, son of Bradley Nowell, as they bring the band’s classic hits and evolving sound to life on stage. The tour also marks a major milestone with the release of Ensenada—the band’s first original single in 30 years—which recently broke records on the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart.
Fans can expect explosive performances, a powerful celebration of Sublime’s legacy, and a chance to experience the band’s next chapter as it unfolds. Australian surf-rock favourites Skegss will join the tour and sideshows, adding their signature sunny energy to what promises to be an unforgettable run of shows.
Tix: https://www.sublimelbc.com/tour
Tix: https://moshtix.com.au/v2/event/byron-bay-bluesfest-2026/178950
