Fans of reggae-rock group Sublime with Rome have something to celebrate in 2019 with the release of the groups new album Blessings. Sublime is a name that sparks fire in the heart of many music lovers. Sublime with Rome is not just content to ride the wave of past successes; the group’s new album Blessings takes listeners to an exciting new place, combining their traditional sound we’ve always relished with some fresh magic.
Possibly the best of the three albums released by this team of skilled musicians, Blessings feels like a real glimpse into the lives of these reggae legends.
The last full album release from Sublime With Rome came in 2015 (Sirens) and since then, loyal fans have been waiting patiently for a new set of tracks to fall in love with. Blessings delivers. Possibly the best of the three albums released by this team of skilled musicians, Blessings feels like a real glimpse into the lives of these reggae legends. Rome Ramirez’s writing style mixes small doses of honesty and pain with flashes of light and humor. All of this lays over the upbeat Cali-reggae rhythm that makes Blessings feel familiar.
Sublime with Rome worked with the incredibly accomplished music producer Rob Cavallo to create an album that is beautiful and balanced. Cavallo is a legend in the music industry. He is obsessive about each sound and the album is better because of it. Listen with quality headphones to fully appreciate the perfection of each tone.
The title track “Blessings” stands out along with “Wicked Heart” as examples of the group’s memorable style and longterm staying power, all the while reaching for new sounds. The voodoo imagery and Latin beat on “Wicked Heart” shows how the band can grow from its steady reggae base. “Lights On” is an instant favorite, starting out with acoustic guitar and bird song, then building to an easily danceable vibe. “Blackout” has just a taste of that old punk flavor and a gentle nod to hip hop spirit. “One Day At A Time”, featuring Eddie Zuko, is the kind of track that you’ll be singing all day after just one listen. The lyrics “One day at a time // You lie, you toy with me // I don’t even mind // I kinda like how you enjoy it” are prime examples of the kind of unexpected pleasures and pain motifs that the whole album centers around. Rome Ramirez plays discord and contradiction into delicious harmony and it is addictive.
Rome Ramirez plays discord and contradiction into delicious harmony and it is addictive.
Although this album can be enjoyed on all online platforms, a collector’s vinyl LP was also released which has its own charm. The album cover art, which is reminiscent of previous designs, is beautifully done and reflects the personality of the artists and the attitude of the songs.
Sublime with Rome started in making music together 10 years ago and all of that experience together has resulted in an album much tighter than previous works. Blessings makes a great soundtrack for summertime and is a must-have addition to any reggae-lovers music library. Catch Sublime with Rome on tour across the country this summer with reggae music champions Common Kings and Michael Franti.
Purchase or stream Blessings album:
Track listing:
- Blessings
- Light On
- Wild Fire
- Spiderweb
- Blackout
- Wicked Heart
- Survive
- May Day
- One Day At A Time
- Thank U
- For The Night
Sublime with Rome “Thank U” official video
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Disclaimer: All views presented in this album review are those of the reviewer and not necessarily those of Top Shelf Music.
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