“The best newgrass band in New Zealand … They always have an interesting and high quality show – doing songs no one else in the bluegrass world does. Never get bored at a Pipi Pickers show.” –
Mike Kear, Music from Foggy Hollow
The Pipis play a blend of contemporary and traditional hard driving bluegrass with solid instrumental chops and an engaging performance style that puts a smile on everyone’s face and infuses even the most dreadful of murder ballads with a sense of joy and energy. The Pipis bring a love of the genre and a desire to share that love with as many people as possible. Nat Torkington is a standout New Zealand 5-string Scruggs-style banjo player, and is ably supported by his father Barry on guitar, Garry Bigwood on mandolin, and wife Jenine Abarbanel on double bass and vocals.
The Pipis have become favourites at New Zealand and Australian music festivals through their vibrant performances, open and inclusive jam sessions, and slow jam workshops.
Pipis are a delicious edible shellfish gathered when the tide is out around Whangateau and Leigh, the Pipi Pickers’ home town.
Kiwigrass is produced with the support of:
and in association with :
