Andy Farag has been the percussionist for Umphrey’s McGee since 1998, adding auxiliary percussion and rhythmic texture that supports the band’s mix of rock, funk, prog, and improvisation. His role is a key part of Umphrey’s live sound, especially in extended jam sections where layered rhythm and color become part of the arrangement.
Farag joined the band full-time in the summer of 1998 after initially sitting in with the group during their early South Bend-era period. Over the years he has remained a consistent touring member and is closely associated with the band’s performance identity, documented through Umphrey’s extensive archive culture and official live releases.
Recent activity: Farag continues touring with Umphrey’s McGee through the band’s 2025–2026 schedule listed on their official tour calendar. In 2025, the band released Blueprints, a fan-driven project built from listener-submitted improvisations that were developed into finished compositions. Umphrey’s also continues issuing official Hall of Fame live releases, including recent multi-LP editions.
Plays: Pearl; Paiste; Vic Firth.
Sources: Umphrey’s McGee (official website); Pearl Drums (official artist page); JamBase; Spotify (release listings).
Update: January 23, 2026
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