To Feel Alive When Nothing Ever Changes

Marnie Stern “Logical Volume” – Marnie Stern’s busy arrangements are like a highly stylized representation of a world of infinite distractions. Whenever her tiny but enthusiastic voice breaks out of the din it seems like a minor triumph, as though she is defeating insurmountable odds by cutting through the collective noise of humanity and asserting her will. Her songs mostly blast the listener with rapid bursts of treble which require concentration on her part, but eradicate every coherent stream of thought in its path. There’s some peace at the center of each song, but you can only feel it if you can tune out the clutter. “Logical Volume” is actually one of the most focused numbers on her debut album, and unsurprisingly, it’s also the most overt statement of identity and ego. Stern indulges in building up her own myth, proclaiming that she’s “off the radar way too long” and announcing that this (the song? the album?) is her “Thunder Road” and “Marquee Moon.” It’s a refreshing show of confidence, even if the tone is slightly jocular. (Click here to buy it from Buy Olympia/Kill Rock Stars.)