History has shown that bands formed around romantic couples can be a productive, if at times a hazardous occupation. Whilst the relationships behind Arcade Fire and Jenny and Johnny are currently creating an exciting musical output, the likes of Richard and Linda Thompson, Sonic Youth and even ABBA have demonstrated what can happen if it all goes horribly wrong.

Step forward Bowerbirds, a group formed by the couple Beth Tacular and Phil Moore. When not touring, the pair dwell in a half built cabin within a North Carolina forest, singing songs berating man’s destruction of the environment. Some might say the couple were asking for trouble from the outset.

After early success with their brilliant debut ‘Hymns for a Dark Horse’, the follow up ‘Upper Air’ would almost destroy the band. Yet out of the turmoil of a broken relationship and a life-threatening illness comes ‘The Clearing’, the groups most dynamic and personal album to date.

In a highly candid interview, co-founder Beth discusses the chaos that led to the new album, her relationship with a fellow Bowerbird, and the band’s love for a life lost in the wilderness.