As the Current 89.3 FM continues to rise in ratings and profile, so apparently does its commitment to local music -- a relationship that has benefitted the station and the scene mutually. This week, the Minnesota Public Radio outlet is launching a new "Local Current" stream on its website that will spin Minnesota music nonstop/24-7, from here to eternity. Or at least until Husker Du reunites. The stream will officially launch Thursday morning.

Not just some kind of generic link to the station's digital catalog, the "Local Current" stream will actually be programmed just like any on-air playlist and have between-song commentary from Current staffers. Also look for re-airings of David Campbell's Sunday night "Local Show" on Monday nights, plus archived in-studio performances and interviews here and there.

"If resources permit, we plan to do even more with this," said program manager Jim McGuinn, who was manning the stream himself this afternoon when I heard a "preview/dry-run" version. Atmosphere, BNLX, Mark Mallman, Lucy Michelle, the Replacements, the Arms Akimbo, Hastings 3000, Communist Daughter, Plastic Constellations and even the Japhies were among the tracks played. Campbell, Mark Wheat, Mary Lucia, Bill DeVille and other familiar 89.3 staffers will helm the stream once it debuts.

One thing about the "Local Current" stream that might raise as much ire as it does pride: It is being funded in part by the Minnesota Legacy Amendment's Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.