A fusion of hardcore and progressive metal, "A Thousand Forms of Action" from Norway rockers DESEIZED is an overdue break from the stereotypical Norwegian death metal we have all come to know and love (and loathe in some cases).

A perfect fusion of hard hitting hardcore screaming and heavy breakdowns, intertwined with melodic overtones typically reserved for pioneers of progressive metal, "A Thousand Forms of Action" breaks down the barriers between the two respective genres. Typically a fusion of genres leads to a product that borrows elements from each genre and fuses them together into a bastardized version of the two. Not the case with DESEIZED who swiftly and elegantly navigate between hardcore riffs and screaming, and melodic progressive metal. Coming in at just under 30 minutes in length and 5 tracks, my one complaint is that I wish there was more.

The Norwegian quintet start out strong with the song, "Divides", with a light intro that immediately turns into a hardcore deluge. The song takes a left turn at the chorus, sounding almost like an entirely different band. The seamless navigation between the two styles really makes for an enjoyable listening experience.

"Firelung" is a more straightforward hardcore tune. Sticking more with the hardcore roots.

"Sledgehammer Suicide" starts out with a vaguely PANTERA esque vibe, but eventually returns to the melodic fusion that seems to be the theme of the album.

The sound of "Constellations" is a bit more muddled and less defined than the rest of the album but still maintains the melodic overtones and delivers an impressive vibe, although the extended 40 second outro is a bit much.

The final track of the album, "Patterns Within Patterns", is, in my humble opinion, the best track on this album, showcasing the talents of all 5 members of the band. Vocals that range from screaming to the traditional hardcore "heavy speaking" style, and back to the melodic singing. Guitars that go from heavy distorted, chunky power chords to a smooth and emotional solo that can almost be described as in the style of David Glimour, ala PINK FLOYD.

All in all, "A Thousand Forms of Action" is an excellent listen and well worth picking up. This album will draw you in and make you listen again and again. A nice break from the traditional hardcore album; you will not be disappointed.<