The release combines soul, R&B and indie to create a listening experience like no other. Sikasa’s heart is on her sleeve throughout, with intricately woven lyrics and impassioned vocals.

The introductory song, of the same name as the EP, causes stirrings of heartache and hollowness. It is a stripped back and moving piece with Sikasa’s voice and lyrics doing the heavy lifting.

In the future this track is sure to be selected for an intimate, melancholic scene in film or TV. Its tender sound is enough to set the scene.

Following the emotive and pared-back ‘Hard to Love’ is ‘Wait Up’, a soulful ballad nearing on gospel as it opens. This is the most successful track from the release on Spotify with over 140,000 plays to date.

‘Wait Up’ picks up the pace from its predecessor and gives you insight into Sikasa’s true potential as an artist.

Its lyrics tell a story that so many can empathise with of feeling you’re not where you should be just yet. Sikasa delivers words of encouragement in the chorus: “You don’t need to wait up, I’ve got time.”

Layering of vocals and instruments as we edge towards the final note is both powerful and personal.

Closing the release is ‘Work of Love’. It is a concoction of vulnerable vocals, beautiful instrument work and impassioned lyrics: “The work of love is not for the weak.”

Here Sikasa recognises her own self-love and the journey from ‘Hard to Love’ to ‘Work of Love’ becomes apparent. The collection of tracks ends on an optimistic, embracing note.

Despite all three songs being released as one single, each track differs from the next while playing its part in a cohesive project. What stands out through it all is Sikasa’s voice, which is somewhat incomparable.

Her sound is just as unique and Sikasa’s latest release flexes her creative muscles at the same time as taking the listener on a journey of self-discovery, acceptance and love. ‘Hard to Love’ is nothing short of a triumph.

Earlier this year Sikasa was shortlisted for the 2023 Scottish Album of the Year Award with her EP ‘Twelve Wooden Boxes’. At the time of printing she has almost 40,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. With the SAY Award success already under her belt and the exceptional release of ‘Hard to Love’, one hopes Sikasa’s sound is more discoverable to new listeners than ever before.