Andy Howells chats to Belinda O'Hooley of O'Hooley and Tidow ahead of the duo's appearance at Bristol Folk House on March 21.

Who are you and how did you come together?

We are Belinda O'Hooley & Heidi Tidow and we met on the Huddersfield music scene. We both really liked each others songwriting and singing, so decided to join forces and write and perform together as O'Hooley & Tidow.

Where are you from?

Heidi is from Huddersfield and I come from Leeds. We're both half Irish and Heidi is half German so a right pair of mongrels!

How would you describe your music style?

The Independent recently described our music as "Defiant, robust, Northern, poetical folk music for the times we live in." We are also known for our close, vocal harmonies and contemporary piano soundscapes.

What’s been your best live experience?

Performing completely acoustically at the Valley Folk Club in Pontardawe. The acoustics of the room were lovely, as were the organisers and the audience, who helped make it a very special night.

How is working in a duo differ from working in a group like The Unthanks?

Heidi is my life partner, so there is far less separation between our music making and day to day living together. It means that if we want to write a song together, we can do so without having to sort out a rehearsal with other people. Also, on the road, we can experience the many highs and lows of being professional folk musicians together and support each other. We wouldn't have it any other way.

Can you tell us more about your recent album?

Our new album is called 'The Hum' and it celebrates “the hum” of life: the optimism, the grit and the lifeblood that flows through each of us. It has been produced by Mercury nominated Gerry Diver - a multi-instrumentalist who acted as sonic architect on The Hum, adding all manner of beautiful instruments, sounds and electronica to each song.

You’re touring shortly are you looking forward to that?

We love touring, and both feel very fortunate to be able to make a living from our music. We especially enjoy meeting new people, seeing new places and being able to find the best pint of real ale!

What can people expect from your forthcoming Bristol gig?

We've played Bristol Folk house a few times now and we're really looking forward to a return trip. Expect to hear songs from The Hum and also our back catalogue, and new arrangements and developments of songs - something we're really excited about.

Will you be coming to Wales sometime in the future?

Yes, we've just confirmed 2 Welsh dates in May which are: Fri 23rd May - SWANSEA The Chattery and Sat 24th May - MACHYNLLETH Y Tabernacl.

Where can people hear your music?

You can buy our albums from all the usual places and our websitewww.ohooleyandtidow.com. Also, there is lots of footage on YouTube including our own channel which has exclusive videos of songs from The Hum.