
Hub City Stompers (HCS) is a ska band from New Brunswick, New Jersey, known for their aggressive mix of traditional ska, punk, reggae, and oi!. Formed in 2002, the band carries the spirit of classic ska while infusing it with irreverent humor, hardcore energy, and streetwise attitude.
The band’s music incorporates elements of 2 Tone, traditional ska, and punk, often tackling social issues, subcultural conflicts, and everyday struggles with a mix of humor and biting satire. Their lyrics frequently reference ska culture, street life, and working-class identity, making them one of the more outspoken bands in the genre. Hub City Stompers are known for their rowdy and high-energy live shows, which blend ska’s danceable grooves with the aggression of hardcore punk. They have shared the stage with bands like The Pietasters, The Slackers, and Mustard Plug, earning a dedicated following in the ska and punk scenes. Still active and going strong, HCS continues to record, tour, and wave the flag for streetwise ska. Their sharp humor, no-frills attitude, and tight musicianship keep them relevant in both the ska and punk communities.