Even as fans continue to soak in the glow of Sublime’s chart-topping single “Ensenada,” the band has dropped an acoustic version of the tune.
The rendition features singer/guitarist Jakob Nowell teaming with friend and frequent collaborator Zane Vandevort, better known as Zayno. Unlike the studio version, the acoustic rendition distills “Ensenada” into more of a laid back jam session. Gone are the turntable scratches and propulsive backbeat — instead this feels like the version of “Ensenada” you’d hear around a beachside campfire. Jakob even changes up some of the lyrics, giving this acoustic interpretation its own distinctive flavor.
READ MORE: ‘Ensenada’ Is Now Sublime’s Biggest Radio Hit
When discussing “Ensenada”‘s creation, Jakob admitted he strived to capture Sublime’s classic sound.
““Ensenada and the new music we’re working on is inspired by old Sublime material,” the singer noted. “You can’t match something from that ‘90s era – it was such a moment in time. This feels like an epilogue, a thank you to all of the fans and everyone who’s supported Sublime. Our goal with ‘Ensenada’ was not to replicate anything, but from my perspective its more like a tribute to my uncles Bud and Eric and the inspiration they give me. It’s organic and we have a good time. We did a bunch of jams, dove into the old catalog, and the more it felt like fun—throwing it all together and seeing what sticks—the more we knew that was the right move. Creating genuine music that reflects your life and times… people tap into that, and then you look around and realize, wow, look at all the love we’ve found.”
Sublime’s busy 2025 will continue with a headlining performance at Mission Bayfest on October 18. The group has already announced a handful of dates for 2026 as well, including a stop at Innings Fest in Tempe, AZ, and performances at England’s Slam Dunk festival, marking the first UK shows in Sublime’s history.
