Coroner – Autopsy

It was such a rush to hear that Coroner had comeback in 2011 to play some live shows. They are one of the most lamented bands from the 80s thrash scene. Unfortunately Coroner made no promises of new material when they reformed it was enough that they were giving us live shows. From 1987 to 1993 they released 5 studio albums and on their second album “Punishment for Decadence” they started to receive serious coverage in the press and also on the likes of MTV’s Headbanger’s Ball. At this time they were being mentioned in the same breath as the likes of Kreator and Destruction. Sadly, as is well documented, along came grunge and killed not only the mediocre but also a lot of essential band’s careers.

Coroner have now released this retrospective 3dvd set including a documentary, live recordings and previously unseen interviews. Also included is this 8 track cd which only scratches the surface of their talent and back catalogue. First minor gripe is that is not in chronological order which may be off putting for a new person coming to the band. Starting with “Divine Step” it does however set the stall out early and showcases the full breadth of Coroner’s technical prowess. Out of the 8 songs on here the one that will be most familiar is “Masked Jackal” which had heavy rotation on commercial television. There isn’t a bad track on this album, they are the Rush of the thrash world – the instrumental “Nosferatu” shows this off perfectly, technical but they do not forget about the art of the song. The individual members are able to shine when it is appropriate and not just for the sake of it.

This release is a mouth watering proposition for fans of the band, however for someone wanting to dip their toes into the world of Coroner may be put off by the sheer scale of this release. The original 5 albums are long overdue a re-release and given the kind of attention that has been lavished upon lesser bands of the era I hope too see that happen soon.

Tracklisting

1. Divine Step
2. Reborn Through Hell
3. Masked Jackal
4. Die by My Hand
5. Sudden Fall
6. D.O.A.
7. Nosferatu
8. Serpent Moves

Band Members

Ron Royce – Bass,Vocals
Tommy T Baron – Guitars
Marquis Marky – Drums