Artist: Bok
Country: The Netherlands
Label: Self-Released
Formats: Cassette Tape
Year: 2025
‘Mors Gregis’ was already released in the summer of 2025 but has slipped, shamefully, between the cracks of time and a too-busy schedule. Even more embarrassing knowing that this was one of the few releases that was sent in for a review in physical form. And while it might seem almost lacking in interest, ‘Metastasis Dei’, the debut demo from this Dutch one-man band, was one of the more interesting Dutch demos of 2024. It delivered classic Black Metal, but enhanced with a solid layer of non-metal influences that were skillfully woven throughout the tracks. So, there really aren’t any excuses other than practical ones, but let me just set the record straight right now…
‘Metastasis Dei’ was already a rather lengthy demo, clocking in around half an hour, this debut album almost feels like a second full-length. But, that’s not only because of the playing time. It is, above all, the musical and spiritual continuation of what MvG previously showcased on his initial work. ‘Mors Gregis’, too, is a body of work that blends rather traditional Black Metal with all sorts of other influences, ranging from mild electronics, Dark Wave and an overall sense of progressiveness.
But, let’s be clear on that, it isn’t something that goes along the lines of later Dødheimsgard or anything of that ilk. Or at least, all the quirkiness and wild creativity isn’t as profound and pronounced as some of the more experimental Black Metal acts. MvG uses all these elements effectively to enhance the overall experience, and feels much less like a means of showing off how open-minded he is and of pushing his listeners into a semi-intellectual corner. A song like ‘Captured In Oblivion’ for instance, with its contrarian riffs and overall suffocating darkness, has a strong resemblance to the second half of Mayhem’s career. That comparison pops up more often throughout the 45 minute ride that is ‘Mors Gregis’, but seems to get more frequent towards the end of the album. In a sense, the tension builds further with each successive track, drawing the listener deeper into the album. Even without a clear standout highlight, ‘Mors Gregis’ becomes an increasingly magical album in which the instruments merge into an almost ritualistic dance. The dynamic nature of the music and the additional elements, including an almost Eastern-sounding piece, electronics, and semi-acoustics, reach terrifying depths.
‘Metastasis Dei’ was an excellent introduction and already offered a glimpse of MvG’s far-reaching musical ambition and vision; on ‘Mors Gregis,’ he takes a significant step forward on all levels. This is perfect for those who prefer their Black Metal to be multi-layered, without the pretentious stylings of some bands on the trendy labels of the moment.
