Pox is a Belgium (Flanders) Black Metal outfit existing since 2014. Already active 12 years but their releases are quite sparce. Two EP’s, a split and a live album are spawned in this timespan. You might have thought that it is time for a full length but Pox certainly thinks otherwise. With their newest EP :BKW: (Brass Knuckles Witchcraft) they managed to create a powerful statement.  Their  harsh, vile, grim and at times punkish sound is really enjoyable. While handling themes such disease, death, necromancy and other unsavory topics you know Pox are up to no good. This illustrious band manages to operate from the shadows since I can’t find anything of its members. It just adds to the atmosphere and unsettling feeling this EP manages to create.

This EP starts with “Lucifyrs kage ende helpcaps clove” starts wit a dark sample after dissonant guitarts which go directly for the jugular. It has a great drive and no-nonsense attitude. Added with a pinch of Punk and Black and Roll vibe. Follow up “To Greifswald”  is a mid-tempo basher which feast on your dark soul. In the mid-section they play with more pedal to the metal. Simply put: a great song. It offers nothing new but is highly enjoyable and is crafted very well.

“The Flaggalent’s Howling” has some great lead guitars while not forgetting to be vile, dirty and gloomy. It reminds me somewhat of Helleruin, Taake and old Gorgoroth but still manages to have its own face.  The title track “Pox (BKW)” follows the same approach while “Blackenend (The Circle Complete) again has great lead guitar. The vocals give this song extra power and the sample at the end is really fitting.

I like the fact that they are so straight-forward but never sound simplistic or blunt, just powerful and focused. The way Pox present their songs are utterly addictive. This is pure underground music. So don’t expect any compromise. :BKW: (Brass Knuckles Witchcraft) takes no prisoners and shows no remorse. It’s no nonsense, straight forward, aggressive and brutal. No keyboards, no redundant solos of melodies but pure, soul poisoning devastation. But the devastation goes hand in hand with chilling atmosphere. It surely has its roots or takes inspiration from  the  second wave of Black Metal. The formula is likely familiar by now. It probably works so well because it involves five tracks rather than a full album. Everything is delivered with great flair, attitude and a no bullshit attitude. A gritty little release that fans of the genre can buy without any remorse. The production is solid, and the artwork is highly fitting. It shows the Belgium underground is still undead and kicking! I hope to see these gentlemen perform live soon. Until then, I’ll certainly be giving this another spin. Buy this record because its….good stuff!!!

Label: Void Wanderer Productions
Release date: 23 July 2026

Reviewer: Erik

Score: 7,9  / 10

Tracklist:

1. Luycifers kage ende helcaps clove
2. To Greifswald!
3. The Flaggelants’ Howling
4. Pox (BKW)
5. Blackened (The Circle Complete)