Funk, Fun, and Psychedelia: The Secret Sauce of Pigeons Playing Ping Pong

The Rise of Pigeons Playing Ping Pong: From College Jams to National Recognition

In the mid-2000s, on the campus of the University of Maryland, a group of friends came together with one goal in mind—making music that was as fun as it was funky.

Guitarist and vocalist Greg Ormont and fellow guitarist Jeremy Schon started jamming together, blending their shared love of funk, jam, and psychedelic rock. Soon, bassist Ben Carrey and drummer Dan Schwartz joined the mix, and Pigeons Playing Ping Pong was born.

Live From The Big ROom, Sierra NEvada Brewery Chico CA March 18, 2025 filmed by the gooch

The name, as quirky as the band’s high-energy style, was a reflection of their playful and unpredictable musical approach. They weren’t just another jam band—they infused their grooves with humor, explosive energy, and a vibrant stage presence that set them apart from the pack.

Grinding on the Road

and Early Buzz (2009-2013)

Like many jam bands before them, Pigeons honed their craft on the road. They gigged tirelessly, playing house parties, small clubs, and college events. Their infectious, funk-driven sound and wild live performances started earning them a dedicated fanbase—affectionately known as "The Flock."

By 2010, they had released a rough collection of early tracks called Funk E P, which gave a taste of their evolving style. However, it was their debut studio album, Funk (2010), that started turning heads. The record showcased their knack for blending deep grooves, playful lyricism, and improvisational jamming—setting the foundation for what would become their signature sound.

As they continued to tour heavily through the early 2010s, Pigeons started gaining traction on the festival circuit, appearing at small regional festivals and winning over crowds with their boundless energy. The band's relentless touring and reputation as a must-see live act helped them grow steadily, and word of mouth spread fast in the jam scene.

Breakthrough

and National Attention (2014-2016)

By the mid-2010s, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong had solidified themselves as rising stars in the jam and festival world. The release of their second full-length album, Psychology (2014), marked a turning point. It wasn’t just a collection of fun funk tunes—it was a more polished and dynamic record that proved they had depth alongside their onstage antics.

Their reputation grew even stronger as they landed spots at major festivals like Domefest (their own curated festival), Electric Forest, and The Peach Music Festival. Fans started recognizing their signature elements—spaced-out jams, rapid-fire funk guitar licks, and Ormont’s animated stage persona.

By 2016, with the release of Pleasure, Pigeons had officially arrived on the national jam band radar. Their relentless work ethic, infectious live energy, and signature sound had earned them a place alongside modern jam greats like Umphrey’s McGee, The String Cheese Incident, and Aqueous.

From dorm room jams to festival headliners, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong had proven that funk, fun, and pure unfiltered energy could still make waves in the modern music scene. And they were just getting started.

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong (2016-2018): Breaking Through the Jam Scene

By 2016, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong had built a strong grassroots following through relentless touring and high-energy live shows. With the release of their third studio album, Pleasure (2016), the band solidified their reputation as one of the most exciting and unpredictable acts in the jam-funk scene.

Their fanbase, known as “The Flock,” was growing rapidly, and they were no longer just a college-party band—they were becoming festival favorites.

The Touring Explosion & Festival Takeover (2016-2017)

Pigeons had already been road warriors, but from 2016 to 2018, they truly kicked their touring schedule into high gear. They played more than 100 shows per year, hitting nearly every major festival in the jam and funk circuit.

Their appearances at Electric Forest, Summer Camp Music Festival, The Peach Festival, High Sierra, and LOCKN’ helped introduce them to a broader audience beyond their college fanbase.

A key factor in their rise was their ability to blend humor, showmanship, and insane musical chemistry into every performance. Greg Ormont’s high-energy, almost cartoonish stage presence—coupled with Jeremy Schon’s fiery guitar work, Ben Carrey’s deep funk bass, and Alex Petropulos’ tight drumming—made their shows an experience rather than just a concert.

Lineup Change: Enter Alex Petropulos (2017)

One of the biggest shifts during this time was the departure of Dan Schwartz, the band's original drummer. In 2017, Alex Petropulos joined the band, bringing an even tighter and more dynamic rhythm section.

His addition helped refine the band’s sound, allowing them to explore more intricate grooves and improvisations while maintaining their signature high-energy feel.

Pizazz (2017) – Their Breakout Album

In 2017, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong released Pizazz, their most polished and ambitious album yet. Featuring fan-favorite tracks like “Live It Up” and “Doc,” the album showcased a more refined and cohesive sound while still maintaining the unhinged funkiness that made their live shows legendary.

This album marked their true breakthrough into national recognition. It received praise from the jam and funk communities, and more importantly, it helped expand their reach beyond the traditional jam band scene. Their mix of funk, psychedelia, and high-energy rock earned them comparisons to Phish, The Disco Biscuits, and even funk legends like Parliament-Funkadelic.

2018: Headlining Status & National Recognition

By 2018, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong had moved from opening slots and small venues to headlining theaters and larger clubs. They embarked on sold-out tours across the U.S., cementing their reputation as one of the most electrifying live acts in the jam-funk circuit.

They also expanded their own festival, Domefest, which had started as a small gathering but was now attracting thousands of fans. The band’s ability to build a dedicated community of fans made them stand out—The Flock wasn’t just a fanbase, it was a movement.

The Turning Point: Pigeons Playing Ping Pong Becomes a Household Name in the Jam Scene

By the end of 2018, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong had gone from a quirky college jam band to a full-fledged touring powerhouse. They were now regulars on major festival bills, playing alongside titans of the scene like Umphrey’s McGee, The String Cheese Incident, and Twiddle.

Their blend of funk, psychedelic rock, and unfiltered fun was unlike anything else in the jam world. They weren’t trying to be the next Phish or the next Dead—they were carving out their own lane.

With Pizazz earning them new fans and their live show being one of the most talked-about experiences in the jam circuit, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong had officially arrived.

And from there, the only way was up.

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong (2018–2020):

The Road to Bigger Stages & The Pandemic Pause

By 2018, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong had ascended to the top tier of the jam and festival circuit.

They had moved beyond being a rising act and were now a headlining force, known for their explosive live shows, playful energy, and a dedicated fanbase known as The Flock.

With their 2017 album Pizazz still fresh and their live performances reaching new heights, the band entered the next phase of their career—larger venues, massive festival slots, and national recognition beyond the jam scene.

2018–2019: Their Biggest Touring Years Yet

The momentum from Pizazz led Pigeons to their biggest touring years in 2018 and 2019. They continued selling out mid-sized theaters, increasing their Domefest festival attendance, and appearing at major festivals like:

• LOCKN’ Festival

• Bonnaroo

• Electric Forest

• High Sierra Music Festival

• The Peach Festival

• Jam Cruise

These years saw longer sets, extended jams, and more theatrical elements being added to their live shows. The band experimented with psychedelic light shows, themed performances, and elaborate setlists, further establishing their reputation as one of the most fun and unpredictable live acts in the jam scene.

They also started to bridge the gap between the jam and funk worlds, gaining new fans from acts like Lettuce, Galactic, and Vulfpeck.

2019: Presto and a New Sonic Direction

Heading into 2019, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong had their sights set on their next studio project. While Pizazz had been a breakthrough album, the band wanted to push themselves further.

In October 2019, they announced their fifth studio album, Presto, which would be released in January 2020. Unlike previous albums, Presto showcased a tighter, more groove-focused sound while still maintaining the wild, improvisational spirit of their live shows.

Singles like "Dawn A New Day" and "King Kong" became instant fan favorites, and Presto was shaping up to be their most ambitious project yet.

2020: The Pandemic Brings Everything to a Halt

The band kicked off 2020 with a massive tour supporting Presto, playing some of the biggest venues of their career. However, by March, the entire music world came to a screeching halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Just as Pigeons were preparing for a festival-heavy summer, the world went into lockdown. Like many bands, they were forced to cancel tours, postpone Domefest, and put their momentum on pause.

Rather than sit idle, the band quickly adapted.

They embraced the digital shift and started livestreaming performances to keep The Flock engaged. They participated in virtual festivals, played socially distanced shows when possible, and focused on writing new material.

Despite the setbacks, Pigeons remained connected with their fanbase, keeping their unique brand of high-energy funk alive through screens and drive-in shows.

While 2020 was a tough year for live music, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong survived the storm, emerging as one of the jam scene’s most resilient and innovative bands.

Little did they know, the post-pandemic era would only push them further into the spotlight.

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong (2021–2025): Evolution, Resilience, and Musical Milestones

Post-Pandemic Resurgence (2021–2023)

After the global pandemic disrupted live music in 2020, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong (PPPP) made a triumphant return to the stage in 2021.

Embracing the resurgence of live events, they embarked on extensive tours, reconnecting with their dedicated fanbase, affectionately known as "The Flock." Their performances during this period were marked by renewed energy and a profound appreciation for the communal concert experience.

Lineup Changes: Ben Carrey's Hiatus and Zdenek Gubb's Arrival (2024)

In July 2024, bassist Ben Carrey announced a hiatus from touring due to personal reasons.

The band expressed full support for Carrey's decision and temporarily welcomed Zdenek Gubb, formerly of Twiddle, to fill the bassist role. This transition was seamless, with Gubb's style complementing PPPP's dynamic sound.

Live at The Capitol Theatre Album Release (2025)

On April 18, 2025, PPPP released "Live at The Capitol Theatre," a live album capturing their electrifying sold-out performance at the historic venue on February 3, 2024.

The album features a comprehensive setlist, including fan favorites and a unique rendition of The Beatles' "While My Guitar Gently Weeps." The release showcases the band's live prowess and their ability to connect with audiences.

Domefest 2025: A Celebratory Return

After a one-year hiatus, Domefest is set to return from August 7–9, 2025, at ACE Adventure Resort in New River Gorge, West Virginia.

The festival's lineup includes PPPP headlining all three nights, alongside acts like Papadosio and Spafford. This event underscores PPPP's commitment to fostering community and celebrating live music.

Continued Touring and Musical Evolution

Throughout 2025, PPPP continues to tour extensively, bringing their signature high-energy performances to audiences nationwide. Their resilience and adaptability have solidified their status as a mainstay in the jam and funk scenes, with fans eagerly anticipating future projects and live shows.

Ping Ponging

From navigating lineup changes to releasing acclaimed live recordings, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong has demonstrated growth and resilience in the years following the pandemic. Their dedication to their craft and community ensures their continued influence and success in the evolving musical landscape.

Why Pigeons Playing Ping Pong Are So Unique & What the Future Holds

What Makes PPPP Stand Out?

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong (PPPP) aren’t just another jam band—they’re a high-energy fusion of funk, rock, psychedelia, and relentless positivity that sets them apart from the rest of the scene. Here’s what makes them truly unique:

Infectious Energy & Party Atmosphere

Unlike some jam bands that lean into mellow, extended soundscapes, PPPP brings an unmatched party vibe to their shows. Their performances are high-octane, dance-driven, and wildly unpredictable, fueled by frontman Greg Ormont’s boundless enthusiasm and animated stage presence.

Tight, Funk-Infused Jamming

While improvisation is a core part of their music, PPPP’s jams are structured, rhythmic, and groove-heavy rather than meandering. They channel influences from P-Funk, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Umphrey’s McGee, making their sound both jammy and incredibly danceable.

The Flock: A Passionate, Cult-Like Fanbase

Their fans, known as "The Flock," are as much a part of the PPPP experience as the band itself. This community is devoted, colorful, and always up for a good time—similar to Phish’s Phans or the Deadheads, but with an extra dose of fun-loving silliness.

Domefest: Their Own Personal Music Festival

Unlike most jam bands, PPPP has its own dedicated music festival, Domefest, which they have curated for years. The festival is a celebration of the band’s unique culture and features both up-and-coming acts and jam scene veterans.

Constant Evolution Without Losing Their Identity

Despite lineup changes (such as Ben Carrey’s hiatus and Zdenek Gubb stepping in on bass), PPPP has kept their signature sound while continuing to evolve. Their music has become tighter, their production more refined, and their songwriting more adventurous.

What Does the Future Hold for PPPP?

More Experimental & Ambitious Studio Work

While they are known for their live performances, PPPP has gradually been pushing their studio work forward.

With the success of Presto and Live at The Capitol Theatre, future albums could see them experimenting with more intricate compositions, new sonic textures, and even deeper explorations of funk and psychedelia.

Expanding Their Festival Dominance

Already a staple at jam festivals like LOCKN’, Peach Fest, and Electric Forest, PPPP is poised to become a headlining act at even bigger festivals. They’ve proven they can command large crowds, and their growing reputation could lead to top billing at major events.

Potential Collaborations & Genre Crossovers

As the jam scene embraces more cross-genre collaborations (with EDM, hip-hop, and world music influences), PPPP could step into new territories by working with artists outside their core genre—similar to how bands like The String Cheese Incident have expanded their sound.

Domefest’s Growth & Legacy

With Domefest’s return in 2025, there’s potential for it to become one of the premier jam festivals in the country. PPPP’s role as curators gives them a unique platform to showcase emerging talent while maintaining a deep connection with their fans.

Cementing Their Place as a Jam Scene Mainstay

After years of relentless touring, PPPP has already made an impact on the modern jam band landscape. As they enter their next phase, they could become one of the definitive jam-funk bands of their generation, much like Phish or The Disco Biscuits before them.

Why Seeing Them Live is a Must

If you haven’t seen Pigeons Playing Ping Pong live yet, you’re missing out on one of the most joyous, high-energy, and unpredictable live experiences in the jam world today.

Their blend of tight grooves, insane musicianship, and wild stage presence makes every show an unforgettable dance-fueled spectacle.

With an ever-growing fanbase, a return to full-scale touring, and their continued innovation, PPPP’s future looks brighter than ever.

Whether they’re headlining festivals, dropping new albums, or bringing The Flock together for unforgettable moments, one thing is certain—the party isn’t slowing down anytime soon.