The Huaraches

The Huaraches are an instrumental surf-punk band formed in 2011, with roots in the Kingston, Ontario music scene. Drawing inspiration from both Jamaican ska and Californian surf-punk, their sound pays homage to classic instrumental surf combos like The Ventures and The Challengers, while also nodding to more recent acts such as Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet and Man or Astro-Man. While early lineups featured players with backgrounds ranging from garage rock to rhythm and blues to progressive rock, the band has evolved over time, with notable members including guitarists Chris Wood and Adam Weaver, bassist Steve Sotille, and drummer Daniel Chalmers. The Huaraches are known for their catchy riffs and a style that mixes energetic surf-rock with raw punk attitude, making their music a perfect fit for a Tarantino film soundtrack.

The band’s name was inspired by the Mexican sandal called a huarache, though they joke that it might also reference a flatbread snack. Their releases, including “Ride!” (recorded in just one day), “Steal Second,” and “Curl Up with The Huaraches,” showcase their dynamic, layered sound and commitment to original instrumental music. With a playful and energetic stage presence, The Huaraches have carved out a unique niche in their local scene and remain a standout among Kingston’s vibrant indie bands.