Manda Rin - 'My DNA' (This Is Fake Diy) Released 08/09/08

Manda Rin is better known as Glaswegian Amanda MacKinnon, AKA the singer of electro-pop band Bis, who were momentarily semi-famous as leaders of the imaginary 'Teen-C Revolution'. Bis are also a recognisable influence on the shouty lo-fi artists of today including The Ting Tings and CSS. 12 years since the band peaked and 5 years since they split, see's her return with her solo album 'My DNA'. This project is surprisingly fresh and her waif-like squeaky vocal is backed with modern electronics. Manda Rin also takes pride in writing all 12 tracks on the album and playing every instrument too. Her vocal, as always, takes centre stage holding resemblance to an Indie chick on helium or even Madonna.
 
Opening track and first single from the album is 'DNA', brings her back to her roots with pure electro-pop, something you would find in a New York disco. Groovy eccentric and fun, the beats are that of fellow Glaswegians Franz Ferdinand, but a higher tempo while the keyboards and basslines are bubbly and fresh. The track flows effortlessly into 'Typeface' which continues along the line of a dirty hooks, that would make Blondie proud. 'The Word Out' and 'Break up / Breakdown' show of her sweetness and light lyrics about boys being rubbish basically and girly fantasies about ruling the world -  In your dreams I here all the males screeching. Her attempt however to rule the world is still not as confident as more obvious dominatrix electro-girls such as Goldfrapp and Robyn.

'My DNA' although with modern sonics and electronics still has an element of 80's pop, with tunes such as 'Love to Hate' you and 'No Language' showing similarities to early Dépêche Mode and again that Madonna streak is evident. 'Less than Zero' is about the analysis of body fascism in the media today singing '...look at her happy in her own skin/They're just trying to make her feel ashamed..'. An advocate for any female who feels the pressure of the tabloids and weekly magazines. Manda Rin's punky image over the years has been the subject of often unfair criticism which leaves you knowing she sings from the heart.
 
Manda Rin's return on the whole will be mostly appreciated by her loyal Bis fans, however the album can be somewhat frantic in places and the tempo is relentless throughout. It can all be a bit to much if your not in the party mood, however it will also fit in nicely on indie radio stations and dance floors alike.