Bands

"There’s also Hayley Trower, who sings harmonies, does funny commenting in the songs and does some sound effects to illustrate points - she has one of the best voices I know and she's really nice and funny – and Joel Roberts who plays double bass or acoustic bass guitar depending on the transportation to the venue. We like it best when he plays the big one. Joel also makes sure that we never rehearse too hard and that we drink lots of tea."

What type of music do you play?

"My music is acoustic, a bit on the experimental/alternative side and quite playful. The lyrics are the most important part of my songs and they mean a lot to me. I write little stories, sometimes almost like a diary or a conversation, about life in Manchester and things I miss about Norway.

"The country folk singer Devon Sproule left this comment on my MySpace: ‘your songs have a tangible sense of place! I really appreciate that; think it's kind've rare. I love the upright and other sounds - wine glasses, etc. And ESPECIALLY, your sense of humor.’

"Someone else described it as ‘sweet and creepy’ which I quite liked. It's also been described as warm and direct. The narrative style might seem a bit naïve and childlike at first, but the songs usually have some kind of dark side and disturbing undertone."

What’s The Bee’s Niece story?

"We all met while we studied popular music and recording at the University of Salford. The rest of the band members are from different places in England and I am from Norway. I think we did our first gig together in January 2007."

How are things going?

"I've actually played saw with Kirsty McGee, supporting Capercaille at Celtic Connections in Glasgow and at Bridgewater Hall. Both of these gigs were absolutely amazing. I just met Kirsty and Mat at an open mic night at Trof in Fallowfield and they saw me play saw on James' songs. We started talking and they asked if we wanted to come to Glasgow with them the following weekend, which of course we said yes to.

"I haven't got many merits to brag about for my own music. I've played quite a few gigs, but mostly in small venues round Manchester. I also play a lot of open mic nights. I played open mics in London, the best one was at the Green Note Café. They offered me a gig afterwards, so I will hopefully play there soon.

"I played a gig in Moog in Nottingham last weekend which was loads of fun. We stayed over at the venue and got free food and drinks and had a brilliant time and people really liked my music. In Manchester, I've played at Ruby Lounge, Kro Bar, Carlton Club, Thirsty Scholar, Dry Bar and Night And Day.

"I haven't won anything, but I've just entered the Linda McCartney acoustic songwriting competition, so we'll see how that goes."