ONE word sums up the second album by Maya Arulpragasam, also known as Mia, and that is rhythm.

Despite Mia's young age, she has been through a lot in her life, moving from London to her parents' native Sri Lanka and then to Madras, India.

During her time in Sri Lanka, the civil war claimed family members and friends and she did not see her father, a member of the Tamil rebellion, much at all.

These experiences have influenced Karla greatly and the aggressive and dark tones are matched only by the pace of the non-stop beat.

The music is difficult to categorize. A mix of garage, dance and electro is the best I can come up with.

The tracks are full of sounds and the effect is a very atmospheric one, even if not the most melodic.

Bird Flu flies out of your stereo unabated and Mango Pickle Down River is begging to be played over and over again.

Although it takes a few listens, fans will find this offering very rewarding.

DS