I’ve always been on Bud & Eric’s side of the great debate over whether Sublime with Rome is in any way legit or a loathsome cash-in. It wasn’t Gaugh’s or Wilson’s fault that they couldn’t continue as the same band they helped create. They were entitled to give it a try.
But now I gotta wonder: Is it really fair to keep playing major shows under that modified moniker when there’s only one genuine member of Sublime left in the group?
Yes, SWR still sounds spot-on, arguably more than it ever did in the past. Josh Freese is a superb substitution for departed drummer Gaugh, just as he is for Devo and Weezer. Yet, now that Rome Ramirez has established himself as a Brad Nowell heir with some growth potential, why not just forge a new identity?
Surely Gaugh would prefer that: since leaving the group, he’s admitted to having never wanted to tour as Sublime with Rome in the first place.
Anyway, Pseublime or whatever you want to call it will still headline another big bash at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Irvine, on July 28, and they’re getting considerable help: Cypress Hill, Pepper and HB Surround Sound will open.
(You can also enter to win two tickets + boat fare to see Pepper on Catalina Island on June 16 here).
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We have two pairs of tickets to give away to the All-American Rejects and Eve 6 at Pacific Amphitheatre at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 8.
