Life & Times - September 25, 1996
By Jennifer Gurecki

Sublime Still Rocks

Despite the death of its lead singer, Sublime's self-titled third release is worthy of the media's Praise.

Sublime is a lyrically charged album, influenced by Punk and reggae. Songs vary from melodies mixed with record sampling and scratching to ska incorporated with wailing guitars.

Although its last album, 40 oz. to Freedom is more upbeat, their newest album delves into today's social dilemmas facing Americans.

• The "Wrong Way" looks at the life of a 12-year-old girl, forced into Prostitution by her father to support his drinking habit.
• "April 29, 1992" is Sublime's account of the Los Angles riots. It's opinion is blatant: "It wasn't about Rodney King. It's about this f****d up situation and the f****n' police."
• Sublime also takes a very liberal stance on drug use in "Get Ready." This is very ironic considering its lead singer died of a drug overdose.
• "What I Got" is one of the best songs on the album. The acoustical guitar and Programmed rhythm section is reminiscent of many of the songs found on 40 oz. to Freedom.

Overall, the diverse musical styles and interesting lyrics place Sublime in a category of there own. Sublime is definitely an album worth buying.

If you like this album, you should definitely think about buying the previous two albums Sublime has released. It's unfortunate it took the death of Brad, its lead singer, to open the door for Sublime's widespread popularity and media attention.