California (Blink-182 album)
California is the seventh studio album by American rock band Blink-182, released on July 1, 2016 through BMG as the band's only album on the label. Produced by John Feldmann, it is the first of two albums by the band to feature Alkaline Trio frontman Matt Skiba, who replaced founding member Tom DeLonge. After touring and releasing the band's sixth album, Neighborhoods (2011), it became difficult for the trio to record new material due to DeLonge's other projects. After disagreements, the remaining members of the group—vocalist/bassist Mark Hoppus and drummer Travis Barker—sought separation from DeLonge and recruited Skiba in his place.
California (Blink-182 album)
Previous efforts to record a seventh Blink-182 album were repeatedly stalled by then-former guitarist/vocalist Tom DeLonge (pictured here in 2012).
This is the first album to feature Alkaline Trio singer and guitarist Matt Skiba, who became a full-fledged band member while recording California.
The original rejected and uncropped version of the album artwork.
Blink-182 is an American rock band formed in Poway, California, in 1992. Their current and best-known line-up consists of bassist and vocalist Mark Hoppus, guitarist and vocalist Tom DeLonge, and drummer Travis Barker. Though their sound has diversified throughout their career, their musical style, described as pop-punk, blends catchy pop melodies with fast-paced punk rock. Their lyrics primarily focus on relationships, adolescent frustration, and maturity—or lack thereof. The group emerged from a suburban, Southern California skate punk scene and first gained notoriety for high-energy live shows and irreverent humour.
Blink-182 in 2023. Left to right: Travis Barker, Tom DeLonge and Mark Hoppus.
Blink at the Gorilla Pit in 1993
Blink-182 performing in 1993
The band became a mainstay at local all-ages venue Soma during their early years.