American punk legends The Vandals have teamed up with the spirit of Sublime for a fresh take on “Ball and Chain,” released as a single on June 13, 2025. Originally written by Toots Hibbert and co-credited to Sublime frontman Brad Nowell through the Sublime rendition in 1992 , this cover finds The Vandals embracing their long-standing roots in the So-Cal punk and reggae-punk scene.
This version echoes the vibe of their nod to Sublime — a cover track previously featured on their 2002 compilation Punk Rock is Your Friend — but this time the collaboration is officially credited to “The Vandals & Sublime.” The release comes packaged with an official visualizer clip that mixes performance footage and throwback elements, highlighting both bands’ sun-soaked West Coast energy.
The Vandals bring their trademark humor-infused punk style to the song, while touching on the reggae-influenced heritage that Sublime championed. Recorded under their own Kung Fu Records imprint (kindly distributed via Amazon Music), the single underscores a mutual influence and shared lineage in the Orange County scene. It’s an homage that feels more like a reawakening of an ongoing musical dialogue than a mere cover.
If you’re into melodic punk with ska and reggae touches, this “Ball and Chain” is a must-listen. It not only tips its hat to a beloved classic but also cements The Vandals’ place in the lineage they helped shape.
