Born under the sun-drenched skies of Deltona, Florida, The Sub Herbs have made a splash in the reggae rock scene with their unique fusion of reggae, punk, ska, and beachy vibes.
What began as a pandemic-era dream for frontman Billy Smolinsky quickly became a reality. The band started captivating audiences with their high-energy performances and out-of-the-box sound. Their journey, fueled by a love of music and the desire to create something fresh, has turned them into a rising force in the Florida music scene.
The Birth of The Sub Herbs
The name “The Sub Herbs” is a product of Smolinsky’s love for wordplay and his desire to stand out from typical band names. He recalls the process: “I like to wordsmith. I was having some trouble coming up with an actual band name. I didn’t want something like ‘East Coast this’ or ‘West Coast that’ — it all felt kind of played out.” Eventually, the inspiration came from the song “Suburbia” by Bumpin Uglies, which Smolinsky reshaped into “The Sub Herbs.” After a quick phone call to his drummer, the band had its name. With that, a new chapter began.
A Musical Journey Rooted in Florida
The Sub Herbs’ sound is distinctly influenced by their Florida roots. It blends the laid-back beach vibes with the energy of punk and the deep rhythms of reggae. Their debut album, Sub Herbia, released in 2023, captured this eclectic style perfectly. The album debuted at #1 on the iTunes reggae charts. Notably, standout tracks like the infectious anthem “Skipped” and the smooth grooves of “Covered in Sand” helped solidify their place in the reggae-rock movement.
“We’re all about love and relationships. That’s the heart of our music,” Billy says. While the band touches on political themes in some songs, Smolinsky stresses that their core message is about connection and the human experience. “I try to stay centered — I don’t like either side. It all feels like anti-government, anti-establishment, but really just self-serving in the end,” he explains. “I like to focus on ‘for the people’ — that’s kind of the center.”
Influences and Inspiration
The Sub Herbs’ sound has been shaped by a variety of influences — from classic reggae bands to punk rockers. “Definitely Bumpin Uglies — they were a big one. Tunnel Vision, too — I love how they go from fast to slow. And 311 — that’s actually how I got into it all,” Smolinsky shares. This eclectic mix has helped The Sub Herbs carve out a unique space in the crowded world of reggae-rock.
One of the band’s standout traits is their ability to create music that resonates on a personal level. According to Smolinsky, “I like to draw from personal experience. Sometimes I write about themes, like we talked about — politics, but just dipping the toes. The song we just put out, ‘Towards the Sun,’ is about a relationship with someone who might’ve done you wrong.”
Although many of their songs touch on universal themes, Smolinsky admits the lyrics often stem from his own life. For example, the song “Covered in Sand” might evoke a romantic beach scene. However, the real story behind the lyrics is a bit different. “I didn’t actually meet my wife in the crowd, like the lyrics say. She wasn’t covered in sand or anything, but it fit the vibe of the song better, so I went with it,” he confesses. “But yeah, personal relationships really influence my writing.”
Live Shows and Growing Fanbase
The Sub Herbs’ live shows are a testament to their energy and passion for music. The band has quickly built a strong presence at major events like Florida’s Reggae Rise Up festival. As a result, their performances have earned them a dedicated and growing fan base. In 2024, they took their infectious sound on the road, hitting stages at Reggae Rise Up Maryland and beyond.
Billy notes, “Our live shows are where we really shine. We give it everything we’ve got on stage, and the fans feel that energy. We feed off the crowd, and it’s an experience we’re all about.”
What’s Next for The Sub Herbs?
Looking ahead, The Sub Herbs have big plans for 2025. They’re currently back in the studio working on new tracks and preparing for another exciting release. “I’m really trying to do things right this time — put some money behind it, go all in,” Billy says. With a new EP on the horizon and more shows in the works, it’s clear The Sub Herbs are just getting started.
Their dedication to their craft is clear, and their ambition is just as strong. Fans can expect more music, more live shows, and a broader presence across the country. “We’re also working on another EP coming out this year,” Billy adds. “We’ve got a lot in store, and we’re really excited to share it with our fans.”
So, for those looking to keep up with The Sub Herbs, be sure to follow them on Instagram or Facebook. Their music is available on all major streaming platforms, making it easier than ever to experience their unique sound.
Final Thoughts
The Sub Herbs’ rise in the reggae-rock scene is a testament to their hard work, passion, and the unique sound they bring to the table. From their early days in Florida to their breakout success with Sub Herbia, the band has earned its place in the music world. With new music on the way and plans to tour, the future is bright for The Sub Herbs, and fans can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.
