Imagine a live performance where funk, jazz, rock, and psychedelia swirl together into a kaleidoscopic sonic adventure. That’s the magic of Dogs in a Pile, an electrifying quintet from Asbury Park, New Jersey, who have been winning over fans coast-to-coast with their genre-bending sound. At the heart of this musical powerhouse is bassist, vocalist, and songwriter Sam Lucid, whose creative energy and dynamic playing help define the band’s unique identity.
In this week’s episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with Lucid to discuss everything from the band’s forthcoming album to their West Coast tour and their highly anticipated show at San Francisco’s Rickshaw Stop. Along the way, Lucid shares tales of his musical journey, the band’s grassroots beginnings, and the stories behind some of their most buzzworthy tracks.
Dogs in a Pile’s upcoming album is shaping up to be a love letter to their roots. “We’re kind of going back to the vibe of our first album,” Lucid explains, referencing the band’s DIY ethos and eclectic approach to songwriting. “We’re making every song a different kind of thing to show what we can do.” The album is still untitled and without a firm release date, but fans can expect the same musical peaks and valleys the band is known for. “We want to create setlists—and albums—that are a journey. You go from a slow, beautiful song to something crazy and high-energy,” Lucid says. That philosophy is on full display in tracks like “Bent Strange,” which Lucid describes as “someone going crazy.”
As one of the band’s primary songwriters, Lucid thrives in collaboration. “A lot of times, I’ll start with an idea and then bring someone in to help flesh it out,” he says. “It’s amazing how a jam can turn into something really special.”
For Dogs in a Pile, the road is both a proving ground and a source of inspiration. Currently, in the midst of a West Coast tour, the band has faced its share of challenges, including canceling a Los Angeles show due to wildfires. In true team spirit, they turned the setback into a positive by playing a makeup show in San Diego and donating the proceeds to fire relief efforts.
“Our fans—the Dog Pound—are incredible,” Lucid says. “They’ve made this feel like a family. Everyone’s so welcoming, and it’s all about sharing the music we love.”
With stops at iconic venues like the Fillmore under their belt, Dogs in a Pile are no strangers to the Bay Area. Their January 17th show at Rickshaw Stop promises to be a highlight of the tour. “Expect some Cali-influenced Dogs,” Lucid teases. “We’re just going to try to play a badass show.”
Lucid’s journey from a Berklee College of Music student to a nationally touring artist is a testament to his passion and dedication. “Berklee was such a rewarding experience,” he says. “It’s the kind of place where you can meet people from all over the world and be exposed to so many styles of music.”
One of Lucid’s recent career highlights was playing three of Phil Lesh’s (Grateful Dead) basses during a tour stop in San Diego. “It was incredible,” he recalls. “Just touching those basses was a dream come true. I’ve heard a lot of great bass players before him, but the way Phil played live ultimately shaped my playing style.”
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the Dog Pound, this episode of Backstage Bay Area is packed with stories, insights, and the vibrant energy that makes Dogs in a Pile one of the most exciting bands on the scene today. Lucid and his bandmates are carving out a unique space in the musical landscape from their eclectic roots to their ever-evolving sound.
Don’t miss Dogs in a Pile live at Rickshaw Stop in San Francisco on Friday, January 17th. Doors open at 7 PM, and tickets are available now at rickshawstop.com.
Catch more from the band, including music and tour dates, at dogsinapileofficial.com. And be sure to tune in to Backstage Bay Area for the full interview with Sam Lucid, which is streaming now on all major platforms.
