Long Beach Dub Allstars formed in 1997, rising from the tragedy of Bradley Nowell’s passing to carry on the spirit of the reggae-rock movement that Sublime helped pioneer. Founded by Bud Gaugh and Eric Wilson, alongside Long Beach music staples Opie Ortiz, Miguel Happoldt, and Marshall Goodman, the band became a driving force in blending reggae, dub, ska, punk, and hip-hop into a sound that shaped an entire generation.
Their early albums, Right Back (1999) and Wonders of the World (2001), were foundational for the reggae-rock genre, bridging Sublime’s legacy with a new wave of artists. Their sound captured the raw energy of Southern California, blending reggae grooves with punk attitude and hip-hop rhythms, influencing countless bands that followed.
After a hiatus, LBDA reunited with fresh energy, dropping their self-titled 2020 album and solidifying their place as torchbearers of the reggae-rock movement. Their latest record, “Echo Mountain High”, takes their sound to new heights—mixing psychedelic elements with reggae, ska, and dub, while staying true to the signature Long Beach sound. Written during the pandemic, the album was crafted in Opie Ortiz’s backyard before coming to life in the studio with an all-star lineup, including Chris Dowd (Fishbone), Jesse Wagner (Aggrolites), and Devin Morrison (Expanders). The result is an album that pays homage to their roots while pushing the genre forward.
With Opie Ortiz (vocals), Miguel Happoldt (guitar), Tim Wu (horns), Roger Rivas (keys), Ed Kampwirth (bass), and Gil Sharone (drums), Long Beach Dub Allstars continue to evolve, proving their music is more than nostalgia—it’s a living, breathing force. From headlining festivals to inspiring new generations of musicians, their influence is undeniable—keeping the sound and spirit of Long Beach alive and thriving.
