Marnie's songs contain a staggering number of layers, each one winding its way around the others, then counterpointed by her feminine, echoing, powerful vocals. Despite the artful pretensions of some of her influences (Sleater-Kinney, Hella, Boredoms, Melt Banana), her lyrics are her secret weapon. Every line has an understated elegance floating above the mind-numbingly complex guitar work. What makes Stern better than any other tech guitar wizards is her uncanny ability to transform the most complicated guitar acrobatics into beautiful and concise three-minute pop songs.