The two-string variety known as Gawds are mostly used for playing religeous pieces, whereas the more popular four-stringed instruments are called Fidels and are ideal for Latin American rhythms.
Stained a deep shade of indigo they may be used for Bluegrass but the inherant drool associated with this style does tend to soften the notes and make the instruments unplayable. Should be played on the hip, rather like an AK47, and not under the chin like a bazooki, which incidentally, Italians call Piats!