Nadia Nair offers jolt of confidence with "Hardships"

Combining the slinky Eastern-flavoured rhythms of M.I.A. and the powder keg pop of Seinabo Sey, “Hardships” jerks you round the collar from its outset and never relents. It’s a powerful ante-up on the swinging dream pop of last year’s “Beautiful Poetry”.

Nair’s unequivocal insistence to “come and lay your head right here on my shoulder” bears the wisdom of one who has faced down her adversities eye-to-eye:

“'Hardships' is about realising that in life you've got to find a way to work with what works against you. I kept singing the chorus like a gospel to myself which then naturally became a type of mantra to my closest family and friends. In that song, I'm being personally reminded over and over again that the only thing which keeps me from being weak is remaining stronger for them no matter what.”

“Hardships” is out via download 28 August.