1914 – Viribus Unitis Review

By Grin Reaper

1914 has never shied away from the ugliness of war and death. Since Where Fear and Weapons Meet was released in 2021, the Ukrainian outfit has witnessed the horrors of that ugliness on their own soil. On Viribus Unitis,1 the quintet from Lviv maintains the poise and brutality of earlier material while imbuing their latest opus with deft poignancy. The album follows the story of a Ukrainian soldier fighting in the Austro-Hungarian army, and describes the thrill of victory, the anguish of defeat and injury, and the wretched misery of internment. Rather than re-upping the pointlessness of war, though, Viribus Unitis broadens 1914’s philosophy to highlight the camaraderie and brotherhood that such difficult times beget. Do the shift in tone and gravity of personal stakes allow 1914 to clear the high bar they’ve set for themselves?

1914’s brew of blackened death/doom returns in full force on Viribus Unitis, delivering the potent cocktail of history and metallic fortitude we’ve come to expect. As Holdeneye keenly observed in prior coverage, the Bolt Thrower-meets-Asphyx intersection remains apt, as well as Amon Amarthian melodic sensibilities. The opening to “1914 (The Siege of Przemyśl)” would slot perfectly into Fate of Norns, for instance. And anyone paying attention to WWI-centric bands writing songs from the Central Powers’ perspective won’t be surprised by Kanonenfieber comparisons, both in subject matter and determined sonic fervor. Besides the interplay of titanic riffs and melodic leads, listeners are thrown into samples of period-specific soundbites, such as the clip at the beginning of “1917 (The Isonzo Front).” Throughout Viribus Unitis, snippets like this further ensconce listeners in the milieu of the time.

Everything that worked well for 1914 on Where Fear and Weapons Meet has been dialed up on Viribus Unitis. The crushing bulk of blackened sludge, the biting edge of bitter melody, and the tinny clips of a bygone era construct a vivid portrayal of life and death on the front lines. It’s at once addictive and morose, and genuine in a way that transcends surface-level storytelling. Gang choruses weave in with Ditmar Kumarberg’s blackened rasps (“1915 (Easter Battle for the Zwinin Ridge)”) to create a soundscape on two fronts, one unhinged by the chaos of war and the other a united fellowship forged in the fires of man-made hell. Another crucial layer that elevates Viribus Unitis is the guest vocals. Christopher Scott (Precious Death), Jérôme Reuter (Rome), and Aaron Stainthorpe (High Parasite, ex-My Dying Bride) inject variety and character to support 1914’s intricate aural campaign. Stainthorpe’s contribution on “1918 Pt. III: ADE (A Duty to Escape)” haunts with magnetic resonance as his cleans detail the inner monologue of the escaped protagonist while Kumarberg’s snarls narrate a harrowing getaway. This is pure SotY fodder and a must-listen for anyone reading. “1919 (The Home Where I Died)” follows, where a slightly distorted piano adds a warbling surrealism to the dirge. In it, Reuter’s tender croon recounts reuniting with his wife and daughter before the heartrending decision that he must leave once more.2

1914 wields thunder and riffs instinctively, ruthlessly bludgeoning with devastating grooves and cutting with calculated precision. Rostislaw Potoplacht’s3 drumming hypnotizes with martial rolls and implacable plods while Witaly Wyhovsky and Oleksa Fisiuk’s dual-guitar tandem electrifies with fiery trems and viscous atmospherics. All the while, Armen Howhannisjan holds down the bottom end on bass, adding texture and balance to the inexorable heft of Viribus Unitis. The sum total conjures vivid auditory experiences where each track breathes and bleeds with vitality and earnestness. And while no song sounds alike, all are undeniably 1914.

There’s little doubt that 1914 has delivered the most realized and important album of their career so far. Viribus Unitis is a masterclass in no-bullshit metal storytelling that feels authentic, intimate, and anthemic for the entire runtime. The sweeping story of a solider’s struggle through injury, capture, and escape is enough to satisfy, but viewed through the lens of the ubiquity of loss and love makes Viribus Unitis even more profound. 1914’s preceding LPs are fantastic, and their newest platter unequivocally entrenches the band as a premier act with a unique voice and relevant commentary on the human condition and how violence always leaves scars. Viribus Unitis is a must-listen for fans and newcomers alike, and missing this one is sure to leave you shell-shocked.

Rating: Excellent!
DR: NA | Format Reviewed: Stream
Label: Napalm Records
Websites: Bandcamp | Facebook
Releases Worldwide: November 14th, 2025

#1914 #2025 #45 #AmonAmarth #Asphyx #BlackMetal #BoltThrower #DeathDoom #DeathMetal #DoomMetal #HighParasite #Kanonenfieber #MyDyingBride #NapalmRecords #Nov25 #PreciousDeath #Review #Reviews #Rome #UkrainianMetal #ViribusUnitis

“Análise Completa: Este Telemóvel Xiaomi Abaixo dos 250€ Vale a Pena?” #Tecnologia #Reviews #Gadgets #Portugal

Introdução Se estás à procura de um smartphone que ofereça um excelente desempenho a um preço acessível, o Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G é uma opção que merece a tua atenção. Com um preço que pode ser encontrado por menos de 250 €, este modelo não só atrai pela sua faixa de preço, mas também pelas características que promete, tornando-se uma escolha popular…

https://hotnews.pt/tecnologia/analise-completa-este-telemovel-xiaomi-abaixo-dos-250e-vale-a-pena-tecnologia-reviews-gadgets-portugal/

EasySMX X05 Pro Review: The Quiet Gaming Controller

Disclaimer

EasmySMX sent me the the X05Pro controller to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinion. This will be my honest review. Make sure you also check out my review for the S10 and X15 controllers. I’ll also be using my Amazon affiliate links where possible. It really helps me out if you use them before buying anything.

Table of Contents

What’s in the Box?

https://youtube.com/shorts/isQMbCXsHbI

• EasySMX X05 Pro Contoller
• USB-C to USB-A Cable
• 1 x2.4G Receiver
• User Manual

Features

EasySMX has created the quietest controller you’ll ever get to use without sacrificing any performance. The EasySMX X05 Pro is loaded with the features to bring your game to the next level at a very reasonable price point.

Design

The EasySMX X05 Pro features a clean and comfortable design available in three beautiful color schemes: back, white, and a limited edition purple.

The X05 Pro Wouldn’t be a gaming peripheral without proper RBG. The controller has subtle RBG highlights to give it a bit of flare without it losing any of its elegance. The controller’s smooth design promises ergonomic gaming, while its modern looking features promise the performance. If you’re looking for a good looking controller that performs just as good, check out the X05 pro.

Performance

The X05 Pro is loaded with the essential upgrades to any gamer’s arsenal. The X05 Pro has been redisigned with noise-reducing silicone dampers on all of the buttons for the quietest gaming you’ll ever experience. All buttons on the controller are precise, from the 8-way directional game pad, to the adjustable dual-stage hall effect triggers. The hall effect joysticks reduce give the controllers its ultra precision while eliminating that pesky drift you see in something like the joycons. With the controller’s respectable 7000mAh battery, you’ll never have to worry about losing power during those important team fights. What makes the X05 uniquely pro are the 2 additional programmable buttons on the shoulder.

Review

The EasySMX X05 Pro controller is a fantastic budget option with the features and quality to upgrade any gaming setup.

Quality

Users will be impressed by the quality and weight of the X05 pro. Out of the box, users will appreciate the controller’s clean design and well constructed body. While a little on the lighter side, the controller does not feel or look cheap. The buttons, joysticks, and triggers all have smooth and quality actuation. One issue I have with cheaper controllers is that they can be incredibly stiff, but that is not an issue here.

Comfort

Playing with controllers is incredibly hard for me because of my repetitive stress injury. Most controllers, especially on the cheaper end, destroy my hand. Most of the time, I can’t make it through a session with a controller for more than an hour. This is a huge reason why my switch is often collecting dust. Those joy cons have terrible drift now, but they would destroy my hands almost instantly.

While I wouldn’t call the X05 Pro the ergonomic solution to controllers I’ve been looking for, I can enjoy a more respectable gaming session, especially on the switch. The force required for each imput takes pressure off my hands. The shape puts my hands in a comfortable position, and soft textured bottom just feels good to the touch. Most importantly, the quite profile buttons mean I am not annoying anyone with my button mashing.

My hand still cramps up after a two or three hours of continuous gaming, but that is both respectable and unavoidable. This issue isn’t going to exist for everyone, especially if you are taking care of your hands.

Performance

I had no issue with the X05 Pro‘s performance. The controller was accurate and responsive through all the games I put it through without any noticeable latency. The DPad felt good for 2D platforming, the adjustable triggers were nice for high-action shooting games, and the long lasting battery meant I never had to reach for a wire. The quality of the build give me confidence that I can enjoy this high performing controller for a respectable amount of time. At least longer than the Joy Cons I kept having to replace.

Conclusion

The X05 pro is easily one of my favorite controllers for its sleek and comfortable design and quite profile. The features help put it over the edge with its high performance parts and long lasting battery. My only complaint is that I wish the additional buttons were on the bottom instead of the shoulders. While they aren’t hard to reach, having them on the bottom feels more natural and comfortable. Other than that, if you’re in the market for a good, budget-friendly controller, check out the EasySMX X05 Pro controller.

You can pick up the EasySMX X05 Pro controller on the official Easy SMX website, or on Amazon with through my affiliate link.

#2025 #blog #blogger #controller #easysmx #entertainment #gaming #gamingBlog #internet #pc #review #Reviews #watch #wordpress #writing #x05ProController #xbox

“Como o Web Summit e a IBM Estão Revolucionando o Setor de Esportes com Inovação Tecnológica” #Tecnologia #Reviews #Gadgets #Portugal

Introdução Recentemente, o Web Summit tem focado em integrar o desporto à tecnologia, criando uma plataforma onde as empresas inovadoras podem se destacar. Este evento, conhecido mundialmente, não só reúne as mentes criativas da tecnologia, mas agora também se torna um ponto focal para startups no sector desportivo. A colaboração com a…

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Crítica: Terror en Shelby Oaks | #RollingStoneES

https://es.rollingstone.com/critica-terror-en-shelby-oaks/

#cine #cineytv #crítica #diamond #reseña #reviews #terrorenshelbyoaks

Asus ProArt P16 Review: The Fastest Windows Laptop

https://fed.brid.gy/r/https://www.wired.com/review/asus-proart-p16-2025/

Astronoid – Stargod Review

By Samguineous Maximus

Astronoid and I have a history. Their 2016 debut Air was one of those lightning-in-a-bottle releases that blew the doors off my early metal fandom. A delirious cocktail of shoegaze shimmer, sugar-coated harmonies, and blast-beaten bliss, it felt like nothing else at the time, and it sent me tumbling down the blackgaze rabbit hole. Add in the fact that these guys hailed from my quiet corner of New England, and I was all in. I caught them live a handful of times back then, and each gig felt like watching a small band punching way above their weight. 2019’s Astronoid wasn’t a bad album, but its shift toward more conventional post-rock didn’t grab me in the same way, and it eventually fell out of rotation. Their next release, 2022’s Radiant Bloom, was a marked improvement, combining the atmosphere and immediacy of their debut with the songwriting lessons of its follow-up. Still, it didn’t quite recapture the euphoric heights of Air. Now, with a string of impressive live gigs under their belt, including an opening slot for Blink-182 of all people, and a streamlined lineup reduced to a trio, the band returns with their fourth full-length, Stargod. The big question: can Astronoid finally outdo Air, or are we doomed to orbit its glowing corpse forever?

The core sound of Stargod is unmistakably Astronoid, but this time the group leans further into pop-focused songwriting. Their trademark mix of prog, shoegaze, and post-rock remains intact with all the familiar hallmarks: gleeful blast beats, major-key harmonies, soaring choirboy vocals, and buoyant synths. However, they’re used in the service of sharper, chorus-driven compositions that rely on dynamics and layering to strengthen their saccharine, high-energy attack. Slower, ballad-like tracks such as “Stargod” and “Beneath the Lights” exemplify this approach, building evocative, vocal-centered songs on synth-forward grooves while guitar harmonies are added or stripped away for maximum impact around a memorable chorus. These are nicely balanced by more immediate up-tempo cuts which swirl around a hypnotizing central synth motif (“Explosive”) or follow a pop-punk tinged guitar charge (“Dream Protocol ’88”) which melds the band’s familiar sense of high-energy elation with this record’s improved sense of dynamics and hooks. Stargod is a thoroughly pleasant and varied record—balanced, uplifting, and easy to throw on to just bathe in Astronoid’s signature jubilance.

Part of Stargod’s shimmer comes from the newfound confidence radiating from Astronoid’s vocalist, guitarist, and principal songwriter, Brett Boland. His ethereal tenor has always been central to the band’s sound, but here it shines brighter than ever, carried by lush vocal harmonies that elevate every track. Beyond his usual roles, Boland also handles drums on this record and co-mixed the entire album with bassist and synth player Daniel Schwartz. The result is Astronoid’s best-sounding release yet. The synths, in particular, stand out—glowing with both playful innocence and heartfelt emotion—while every element, from the warm, nuanced drumming to the crunchy, reverberant guitar leads, feels immediate and expressive. Mid-tempo rockers like “Third Shot” and “Sabian” land especially hard, gliding between soaring choruses, restrained verses, and climactic solos. Altogether, Stargod feels like the complete, uncompromising realization of a band finally confident in pursuing their true sound.

My biggest critique of Stargod might seem like a bit of a cop-out, but my favorite tracks are the ones that most closely resemble the blast-heavy style of Air. The opening tracks, “Embark” and “Love Weapon,” bring back the high-energy, blast-driven sound of Astronoid’s debut, but with tighter songwriting and immaculate production. This style makes a return on the closing track, “Arrival,” which ends the album with a stunning climax. On repeated listens, I find myself feeling slightly underwhelmed by the middle section of Stargod as it relaxes its grip on the throttle. While those middle tracks are still beautiful and engaging in their own right, I do find myself longing ever so slightly for more blast beat goodness and it’s a bit disappointing that my favorite moments still come from the songs that echo the band’s earlier sound. That said, taken as a whole, Stargod is still a remarkable accomplishment.

With Stargod, I see Astronoid in a position similar to where Leprous found themselves with Malina. While I miss the sheer bombast of Astronoid’s earlier sound, I can’t help but admire the impeccable craftsmanship on display as the band continues to evolve. Stargod is packed with intelligently written, dynamic pop songs that capture the magic of what made Astronoid special in the first place, while confidently showcasing the sonic maturity they’ve developed over the years. Is Stargod a true sequel to Air? Not at all—but it doesn’t need to be. It stands as an impressive record that thrives on its own strengths.

Rating: 3.5/5.0
DR: 8 | Format Reviewed: 320 kb/s mp3
Label: 3DOT Recordings
Websites: astronoidband.com | facebook.com/astronoidband
Releases Worldwide: November 7th, 2025

#2025 #35 #3DotRecordings #AlternativeMetal #AmerianMetal #Astronoid #Leprous #Nov25 #PopMetal #PostRock #PostMetal #ProgressiveMetal #Review #Reviews #Shoegaze #Stargod

Ravage – Ravage

Ravage’s self-titled debut is an uncompromising work of art, a furious conversation that takes place at the volatile intersection of noise rock, avant-rock, and post-hardcore. Formed by three tireless composer-improvisers, Anthony Laguerre on drums, Bastien Pelenc and Mathieu Werchowski on violins, the trio has engineered a fully organic, cinematic, and feverish soundscape. This is a restless band, defined by its appetite for destruction that somehow takes exquisite care of the textures and emotional space at stake. It’s a debut that dissolves boundaries, offering a blueprint for a world open to emotion, adventure, and convulsive beauty. To even begin to understand the architecture of Ravage’s sound, a listener must start with the foundation, the exceptional drumming performance laid down by Anthony Laguerre. He is the anchor, engine, and often the primary harmonic force of the record. This is a dynamic control in the best possible way. Laguerre maintains a breathtaking level of intensity with continuous splashes over the cymbals, creating a constant, shimmering texture that feels like static electricity running beneath the surface. It’s balanced by the sharp, physical impact of powerful snare hits and deep, punchy bass drum beats that drive the music forward with primal force. His use of accentuations over hi-hats and cymbals turns the rhythm into an ever-evolving story, giving the often-abstract soundscapes a commanding, dynamic pulse. The drumming is the physical manifesto of the band, lending the music its heavy, powerful core.

But the dual violin performance elevates Ravage LP into an otherworldly soundscape. In the absence of a traditional guitar or bass, Pelenc and Werchowski shoulder the entire weight of the sonic spectrum. Their violin interplays are the source of all drama and color, delivering melody and harmony, but also the cacophony, experimentation, and sheer virtuosity. The eight strings become chameleons, capable of creating moving, almost romantic themes one moment, only to twist them into grinding, serrated edges of pure noise rock the next. They expertly steer the critical dynamic of tension and release. The violins can scream with feedback and bursts of distortion, layering on effects that make the sound feel thick and corrosive. Conversely, they can weave delicate, plaintive threads of harmony that give the chaotic whole its essential sense of delicacy. This fluid, constant bending and stretching of sound, the movement from the gun to the rose, is the defining characteristic of the album. The overall sound is a remarkable feat of studio and conceptual control. Described by the band as occasionally doom-electroacoustic or offering libertarian litanies, the music carries a textural and philosophical weight. The sound is intensely organic. You feel the friction of bow on string, the physical impact of mallet on drum skin, yet the arrangements are often cinematic, unfolding with the scope and grandeur of a fever dream score. The bursts of distortion and layers of effects are utilized strategically, acting like structural collapses that only momentarily obscure the underlying melodic and rhythmic foundations. The constant exploration of repetitions, an obstinacy that gives the music its insistent, driving quality, serves to build psychological pressure, turning a chaotic jam into a structured, powerful, and commanding piece of avant-rock. The entire work is an aggressive meditation on how creative savagery and fragility are inseparable.

Ravage delivers music designed for deconstruction and reconstruction. The album is a vital artifact for anyone interested in the fringes of heavy music, a record that takes the raw kinetic energy of noise rock and the intellectual curiosity of experimental rock and forces them into a beautiful, volatile chemical reaction. This work ethic exemplifies their belief that in the absence of a new world, art can still carve out a space open to emotion, adventure, and convulsive beauty. Ravage LP is not an easy listen, but it is an essential one, carrying a deeply rewarding dive into an utterly unique and terrifyingly brilliant sonic space. This is excellent material for all those into experimental rock music, a definitive statement from three tireless pioneers.

#AMBIENT #AVANTROCK #AVANTGARDE #EXPERIMENTAL #MUSIC #NOISE #NOISEROCK #POSTHARDCORE #RAVAGE #REVIEWS

“Como as Novas Funcionalidades de Comunicação por Satélite da Apple Vão Transformar a Indústria” #Tecnologia #Reviews #Gadgets #Portugal

Introdução A Apple está a dar passos significativos na implementação de comunicações via satélite nos seus dispositivos, como iPhones e smartwatches. Com a meta de ir além de uma mera funcionalidade de emergência, a empresa está a desenvolver uma série de inovações que visam proporcionar uma conectividade contínua, mesmo na ausência…

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