Volk “Stand the Test” 2023. Very limited edition (25 copies) double-sided lathe cut EP on two discs. Romanus Records. Also included in the bundle are five super-high quality postcards with photos and lyrics, four adorable buttons, a holographic Volk sticker plus one mystery item (which I’m guessing is the page from the Nostradamus graphic novel – on the back is a nice note from the band).

We got to see our favorite cowpunk band this past weekend up in Appleton at Mile of Music and they absolutely slayed the stage. Drummer/vocalist Eleot Reich and guitarist/vocalist Chris Lowe performed a barn-burning mix of older favorites (like “Honey Bee” and “Welcome to Cashville“) plus the songs that appeared – remixed – on this EP. Disc One has two versions of the new song “Stand the Test” – the standard single variant plus the Dubais Bros Remix. It’s a pop-orientated lightly swinging ballad (with synths!) that recalls some 80’s-era Stevie Nicks, at least to my ears. Disc Two has the darkly-tinged, touch-of-evil cow-goth track “I Fed Animals” – the version that is on their 2021 LP Cashville plus the industrial-goth goes to the farm remix “I Fed DarkNESynths.” I believe both remixes feature Electric Six’s Christopher Tait and Matt Van.