Gore Force V – Annus Porcus Oinkus

A few weeks ago I conducted an interview with Dominique Michiels from the Belgian death/grindcore force, Gore Force V. Now time has come to say a few words on band’s six full-length (which was also a theme we talked about in the aforemntioned interview), entitled Annus Porcus Oinkus. Essentially, the title is a humorous, faux-Latin phrase meaning ‘The Year of the Pig’.

Before we go further into details on this seven-tracker new record, I will grab this opportunity and present the band comprised of; Jan de Maeyer (drums), Wesley Heyndrickx (guitars), Buysse Jeroen (guitars), Dominique Michiels (bass) and Senne Blokland (vocals). Founded in 2007, the band actually rose from the ashes of grind outfit, K4B (Kumzzbunchbootiebitchbunch). Five releases followed, with the latest one from 2024 titled At Full Force.

On their 2026 offering the quintet from Antwerp (Belgium) showcases their strong creative period with Annus Porcus Oinkus being their second album in two years. I think it’s a fair assumption that Annus Porcus Oinkus is a continuation of the band’s spirit, as seen on previous releases, but also kind of a bit heavier and faster, while remaining their signature humorous identity. I can not say that Annus Porcus Oinkus is complex record, as I still find it varied and efficient – from melodic passages to dissonant and truly aggressive ones – they cover it all. A brutal and massive atmosphere is paired with heavy chords, wild riffs, pissed-off and massive growling vocals, efficient and good bass sound, relentless drumming and all of this delivcered with a rebellious attitude. In other words; it’s a piece of fast, brutal and slightly grindy mix of brutal death metal and grindcore.

Apart from being aggressive and brutal, the sound feels also a bit chaotic and punishing. The album featuring seven ‘sonic nailbombs’ was recorded at ‘Soundhound Studios’, featuring a clear and balanced production, although I wish the guitar sound was more consitent and clear. As always, the visuals/the cover art match the music, it’s loud, ugly, colorful and unlike anything else.

Two stand-out tracks for me would be the opening “Advanced Cripple Shaming” (listen below) as it just hits like a sledgehammer, and the following “Dead Hooker Necromancy 101: Correct Use of a Shovel” where the aggressive onslaught continues while featuring a slower tempo, shifting rhythms and break-ups.

To summarize; there’s nothing really groundbreaking nor revolutionary about Annus Porcus Oinkus, but it’s effective, coherent and varied short record. Highly recommended for fans of a typical brutal death/grindcore mix and those who prefer their music to be chaotic, savage, aggressive and ridiculous. A physical edition can be ordered from the label’ bandcamp, while the first signle “Advanced Cripple Shaming” can be heard below.