Review | Coroner – Dissonance Theory

Century Media Records

Does anyone remember Coroner, the iconic Swiss thrashers? If not, then you can enjoy their comeback album ‘Dissonance Theory’, which has now been released after a thirty-two years absence. ‘Dissonance Theory’ is Coroner’s sixth studio album and it is a fantastic heavy metal album indeed. The Swiss band now consists of the two founding members Ron Broder (bass guitar and vocals), Tommy Vetterli (guitar) and new member Diego Rapacchieti on drums.

BRUTAL RIFFS AND HARSH VOCALS

‘Dissonance Theory’ kicks off with the rather “weird” dark, short – it only lasts one minute – ,,Oxymoron” and is the intro/prelude for the first real song, being ,,Consequence”, featuring a descending skeletal guitar riff, a melodic middle part and lots of thrashy passages, sometimes reminding me of Slayer’s iconic track ,,Raining Blood”. Follow up ,,Sacrificial Lamb” is also packed with brutal riffs, harsh vocals and that one has obvious Opeth and Gojira influences.

HIGHLIGHT OF THE ALBUM

,,Cirsium Bound” is an extraordinary prog thrash song, while ,,The Law” sounds groovy, ending with an impressive speed crescendo. With ,,Transparent Eye” Coroner produces a slower pace while the song also features a furious guitar solo. Finally, the listener is treated to the highlight of this comeback album: ,,Renewal”, which features the best that Coroner has to offer; power, tempo, and notorious lyrics. ,,Prolonging” is the instrumental closer of this album, and it is a rather weird one, featuring a Hammond organ solo, so what the hell is that?

CORONER – THE CONCLUSION

Conclusion: This comeback album of Coroner is a classic heavy metal album that you just should crank up and enjoy! ‘Dissonance Theory’ will be released as limited double Media book CD, with expanded booklet and the legendary ‘Death Cult’ four-track demo from 1986 as bonus CD – featuring Tom G.Warrior (Celtic Frost) on vocals – , standard jewel case CD, and LP in  various vinyl editions.

Release date: 17 October 2025