Second-hand Smoke cover

Second-hand Smoke

Sublime · 1997

63 min · 19 tracks · ska punk

A kaleidoscope of ska, reggae, and punk energy that encapsulates the raw spirit of the 90s alternative scene.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Doin’ Time (Uptown dub) — This track reimagines a classic song with a laid-back dub vibe, showcasing Sublime's ability to blend genres seamlessly while addressing themes of love and longing.
  • →
    April 29th 1992 (Leary) — A poignant reflection on the Los Angeles riots, this track captures the band's social commentary with a mix of urgency and melodic hooks that resonate with listeners.
  • →
    Badfish — This fan-favorite track is emblematic of Sublime's signature sound, merging catchy melodies with introspective lyrics about addiction and heartache.
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    Saw Red — Featuring guest vocals from Gwen Stefani, this track highlights Sublime's collaborative spirit and presents a compelling narrative about love and conflict.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

40 /100
Lowland
Higher than 1% of albums we've rated

The album showcases Sublime's eclectic style but lacks strong cohesion due to its remix nature and track selection.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements, creating a conversational tone that contrasts with the energetic instrumentals.
  • The sequencing includes multiple versions of 'Doin’ Time', which creates a thematic thread but also disrupts the flow by revisiting similar material too closely.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
5/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
4/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • laid-back vibes for sunny days
  • dynamic flow with varied pacing
  • short bursts of playful energy
  • for social gatherings
  • reflective moments amidst chaos

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward, cohesive albums
  • seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released posthumously in 1997, Second-hand Smoke captures Sublime's eclectic sound just a year after the tragic death of lead singer Bradley Nowell. This collection of remixes and unreleased tracks showcases their distinct blend of reggae rock and ska punk, cementing their legacy as pioneers of the genre during their brief but impactful career.
Stylistic neighbors
311· No Doubt· Reel Big Fish

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Doin’ Time (Uptown dub) 3:46
  • 2 Get Out! (remix) 3:40
  • 3 Romeo 4:31
  • 4 New Realization 2:22
  • 5 Don’t Push 3:55
  • 6 Slow Ride 4:23
  • 7 Chick on My Tip 3:16
  • 8 Had a DAT 3:32
  • 9 Trenchtown Rock 1:41
  • 10 Badfish 3:07
  • 11 Drunk Drivin’ 0:18
  • 12 Saw Red 1:58
  • 13 Garbage Grove 2:12
  • 14 April 29th 1992 (Leary) 3:47
  • 15 Superstar Punani 3:18
  • 16 Legal Dub 3:11
  • 17 What’s Really Goin’ Wrong 2:35
  • 18 Doin’ Time (Eerie Splendor remix) 5:16
  • 19 Thanx Dub 6:29

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata