The Bidibids are Sarah Urwin (Paperbats) on banjo, Simon Carryer on cello-banjo, and Brendan Schenk on mandolin and guitar (Simon and Brendan previously of Barry and the Crumpets). Another product of the fertile folk melting-pot that is the Wellington Folk Festival, the Bidibids were formed in late-night jam sessions in a shared cabin. They came from separate groups, but left with the seeds of a new band stuck to their shoes.
It took a couple of years for those seeds to take root, but now they’re flourishing, and the band’s producing music that’s as catchy as their namesake. The Bidibids are exploring what it means to play folk music in New Zealand, knocking out some traditional and Americana standards, while also delving into the rich material that’s grown closer to home. You’ll hear some familiar New Zealand hits, some contemporary Kiwi covers, and a few originals as well. Always looking for that blend of the familiar and the new, that feeling of recognition and belonging but also reinterpretation and revelation that makes folk music so exciting. Sweet harmonies and some slick playing round out the set, and ensure everyone will find something to enjoy.
Come check out what the Bidibids have sprouted, and they’ll make sure you carry a little bit home with you.
