"You want volume to expand with price."

Yes, but you rarely get what you wish. I am content with a rising price even if it is with low volume. Low volume because no news and none expected today.

I now see that some of the bids at 2.16 were filled probably by moving up and taking the asks at 2.19. The Asks at 2.19 were taken out in greater number while many retreated to 2.20 or fresh ones came in because 2.20 asks are at 50 thousand.

Seems to me like a mexican stand off between 2.15 and 2.20 factions with little trades in between.