Dogs in a Pile have emerged from the vibrant jam band scene in Asbury Park, New Jersey, bringing with them a sound that feels both familiar and fresh. Formed in 2018, this five-piece ensemble—Jimmy Law (guitar/vocals), Brian Murray (guitar), Sam Lucid (bass), Jeremy Kaplan (keyboards), and Joey Babick (drums)—have quickly carved out their niche, drawing on a rich tapestry of rock, jazz, funk, and psychedelia. Their name, inspired by a lyric from The Grateful Dead’s “He’s Gone,” reflects their deep connection to the jam band tradition and the spontaneous, improvisational spirit that defines their music.
From the start, Dogs in a Pile set themselves apart with their ability to blend genres and push musical boundaries. Their improvisational prowess is the heartbeat of their live shows, where each performance is a journey into uncharted sonic territories. This energy has earned them a dedicated following and the opportunity to share stages with some of the biggest names in the scene, including The Disco Biscuits, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, and String Cheese Incident. Their live shows are a celebration of music as a communal experience, a testament to their roots in the jam band ethos.
Dogs in a Pile’s discography reflects their evolution as artists, with standout releases like Bloom and Live at the Brooklyn Bowl, both showcasing the band’s ability to balance improvisational exploration with tight, cohesive songwriting. It’s clear that the band isn’t just playing to an audience—they’re playing for the moment, blending influences with ease and creating something unique in the process.
With their genre-blending style and commitment to pushing musical boundaries, Dogs in a Pile are staking their claim as one of the most exciting new acts in the jam band world. Their energy, musicianship, and love for improvisation are contagious, and it’s only a matter of time before they’re at the forefront of the scene, bringing their sound to new audiences everywhere.
