Released in 1997, Trivial Act's Mindscape is truly an original CD in nowadays prog metal, and this for several reasons. First, they lack keyboards, which have been traded for two guitars, a rather unusual configuration for a prog metal band. This singular composition notwithstanding, we shall see that they perfectly manage to create excellent music ! Second, their style is really special, what makes it difficult to classify them in any particular sub-genre.

Trivial Act plays keyboardless prog metal with strong emphasis on rhythm changes, syncopated riffs and exotic sounding harmonies. Truly tremendous music!

The backbone of the songs is created by firm staccato riffs, some even distinctly reminding of thrash ones, played however with a less heavy sound. In fact, the sound of the guitar on those riffs is even too light / thin, provoking a kind of discrepancy between the style and the sound. Albeit this minor weakness in crunch and depth, the compositions display some terrific rhythm changes, riffs alternating with weird melodies, many being played on "exotic" or "twisted" scales (mostly chromatic, among others). Hence, the band demonstrates excellent skills in its rhythm section, the drummer often pounding with superb accuracy on its double bass.

Although original, this intricate mix reveals some obvious influences for the expert ear, and I wouldn't be surprised if these Norwegians listened extensively to the instrumental parts of "Metropolis" and "A change of seasons" (DT).

Well, if this description fits to some of the crunchier songs (Mindscape, Dream Dwell part 1 & 2, Forbidden eye), the release also contains some average tracks, like a rather dull and shapeless ballad (Rainbow Valley) as well as somewhat less original stuff (Vanish, Crossing bridges).

Last but not least : the singer. He is very talented, has a beautiful and flawless voice, blending clear notes with more raspy tones, however always remaining in the harmonic range.

To conclude, Mindscape is an outstanding debut album, featuring excellent and original prog metal compositions which will enthrall connoisseurs of technical music. My only regret : the sound of the guitars, which lack some more heaviness to be totally convincing in the rhythmic parts.