“They showed us how to be brave and express ourselves through music”-Rich Morowski

Dogs in a Pile is not “another Dead cover band” as Rich Morowski from Mama Tried productions said when introducing the band at the Harvest Fest in Saratoga Springs on October 9, 2022. Like many fans, he fell in love with DIAP after seeing them play once. This single set plus encore is a beautiful slice of the magic sharing with the audience their odyssey of sound. 

This set quickly demonstrated how special they are. Each song has a relatable story with a distinct personality. Each band member has the depth of knowledge and skill to bring their audience all the vibes; fun, jovial, funky, sexy, and a delicious spread of vibes. Fun and jovial, hot and sexy, funky and weird, contemplative and dreamy. Their personable and relatable lyrics combined with their talented musicianship make for an intensely satisfying experience. 

The set starts with Bugle on the Shelf, a jaunty tune which transitions nicely into the Grateful Dead’s Mr.Charlie. By the third song the audience is being blown away by Way to Be, a beautiful coming-of-age song with a sweet message about living life in a positive way “spreading good energy”. By minute three the sweet song takes a mature turn and lets loose into a rager. The strong bassline, energized drums and keys solo aptly demonstrates their jam capabilities and away we go.

While I believe every song is special and amazing here is a few highlights. 

Hesitate. An honest point of view of a classic “I like you, and I think you like me, so let’s get it on” kind of song.  The lyrics suggest a lust that is relatable and enduring…”I don’t want to wait, so let’s not hesitate.” 

Writing on the Wall- Such a mature song. Their story telling abilities show that age should not determine the maturity of a soul. They bravely write about life situations and experiences we all share but rarely talk about or know how to articulate. This song is certainly an example of bravery Rich Morowski spoke of. DIAP writes songs about the Good, bad and the ugly making listeners feel more comfortable with their vulnerability while also being musical masters.

Truth be told, my all-time favorite songs are in this set. An introspective Appleseed into a charming Inchworm, which always finds a way to make you smile, into a cathartic Spun. What a lineup for a great therapy session for mind and soul. China Cat Sunflower is a lovely familiar friend but the real star of the set is Craig and Pat. 

This Craig and Pat is an odyssey of moods. By minute 6 Sam Lucid and Joey Babick jump into a groovy bass and drum duet and by minute 10 the boys are blowing minds while Jimmy Law shreds a glorious guitar riff. By minute 13 spacey vibes are flowing. 18 amazing minutes of a raging “good time”. 

What happened next was interesting. While Jimmy was chit-chatting with the crowd a fan yelled out, “play widespread…play fucking wiiiide spread”. The boys deliberated for another minute, tuning their instruments or whatever they are up to during  transitions. A moment later they ripped into the Widespread Panic banger,  Greta. I found this particularly endearing. Did they hear the fan and decided to indulge them? Or  ironic destiny? Is it ironic that the opening lines are “a pack of rabid dogs…howling at my front door”? 

Tookin’ Around. The DIAP manifesto. We learn about cast of characters (Kieran Tooker- tour manager, Joe Lugo- photographer) while hearing about their humble beginnings and debauchery of their early career. The song’s heartfelt 5-part harmony, including Tooker himself, is a perfect way to end an epic set leaving listeners with a satisfied smile and a light heart.