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The full story

The Dabs were a sharp-edged Auckland pop band with a reputation for wit, speed, and stamina.

The early history of The Dabs is tied to the energy of the 1980s New Zealand music scene. They were known for their mix of pop structure, punk attitude, and stage charisma, with a live feel that became part of the reputation about them.

What made them memorable

  • Fast, memorable songs with a strong melodic core.
  • A live presence that was equal parts reckless and magnetic.
  • Members who moved between bands and projects across the wider scene.
  • A reputation that grew through posters, stories, recordings, and fan memory.

From the archive

Their music and presence live in recordings, EP artwork, and the stories people still tell about the tours, the van, and the late-night energy of the era.

Beyond the band itself, the story of The Dabs is also the story of a network of musicians, venues, and creative friendships that fed into the wider local scene.

Origins

The band emerged in Auckland and quickly built a following through energetic live shows.

View the image gallery

Legacy

Even after the band era, the members and their later projects kept the story alive.

Comic strip

Explore a preserved cartoon from the archive that captures the band’s odd, memorable mythology.

Open the cartoon