Coroner Reunion

Coroner was one of those underrated metal bands, mostly known to hardcore fans. Often labelled a thrash band, their music went far beyond what is usually thought of as thrash metal. Releasing five albums and a semi-compilation in eight years – from the unpolished and technical speed of 1987's "R.I.P.", the complexity of 1988’s „Punishment for Decadence“, the technical quality of 1989’s „No More Color“ and its derivative „Mental Vortex“ from 1991 to the heavier and more laidback style of "Grin" – the band progressed consistently, without ever losing their identity. Composed of only three members – Tommy Vetterli (guitar), Marky Edelmann (drums) and Ron Broder (bass/vocals) – Coroner stood out of the metal scene with outstanding musicianship, creativity, raw power, technical skills and innovation.

Coroner's music became more technical as Tommy’s guitar work was characterized by intricate modes and arpeggios, solo work that was chromatically colorful, as well as the de rigueur crunchy chords and speed runs. Marky’s drumming went beyond the 4/4 time to incorporate odd time signatures which became their trademark. Ron’s bass playing is also worth a mention as having an advanced three-finger technique which enabled him to double the rhythm line as well
as perform more intricate riffs.

Unfortunately, due to lack of exposure and poor management from their label (Noise), Coroner never got the credit they undoubtedly deserved. They broke up after the release of 1993's "Grin", releasing one last compilation album, Coroner, in 1995 to fulfill their contract with Noise, but without Marky on drums (who had, by then, joined Apollyon's Sun, while Tommy momentarily went to Kreator.) Their eponymous album also contained unreleased material and a selection of hits from previous albums.

In March 2005, talks of a reunion were in the works, but later retracted. The main reason was that neither Marky, Ron, nor Tommy had the time it would require to do this properly, and also that none of them liked to "reheat things, except spaghetti sauce." However, in June 2010, Coroner eventually decided to reunite and play at the next year's installments of Hellfest France, Bloodstock UK, Maryland Death Fest USA and more to be announced.