Coroner - Mental Vortex LP

Coroner - Mental Vortex LP

Released in 1991, “Mental Vortex” marks a pivotal moment not only in Coroner’s career, but in the evolution of thrash metal itself. As the classic thrash wave began to slow down in the early ’90s, the Swiss innovators refused to follow trends and instead pushed their sound into deeper, more progressive and sophisticated territory.

Often regarded as Coroner’s magnum opus, Mental Vortex sees the band dialing back sheer speed in favor of atmosphere, melody and intricate songwriting. The slower and mid-tempo passages give the music room to breathe, allowing complex riff structures, unexpected time signature changes and expressive lead melodies to fully unfold. Every song feels meticulously constructed, balancing technical precision with emotional depth.

The album showcases Coroner at the absolute peak of their creativity. Razor-sharp guitar work intertwines with an exceptionally prominent and melodic bass presence, while the drums move fluidly between power and restraint. Vocals remain cold and detached, reinforcing the album’s cerebral and introspective nature. The result is a sound that feels darker, more thoughtful and more individual than anything the band had released before.

Tracks like “Divine Step (Conspectu Mortis)”, “Semtex Revolution” and the epic title track “Mental Vortex” exemplify the album’s ability to merge thrash metal aggression with progressive complexity. The band’s influences stretch far beyond traditional thrash, touching on classical composition, avant-garde structures and futuristic metal aesthetics.

Decades after its release, Mental Vortex remains a benchmark for progressive thrash metal, an album that continues to inspire musicians and listeners alike. This LP edition preserves one of the genre’s most important statements, making it essential for fans of intelligent, forward-thinking heavy music.

Why You’ll Love This Album

• You appreciate thrash metal with depth, melody and intelligence

• You’re into progressive structures and complex songwriting

• You want to explore thrash metal beyond pure speed and aggression

Sound & Aesthetics Highlights

• Sound & Production:

  • Clear, powerful and highly detailed production

  • Slower tempos emphasizing groove and melody

  • Strong bass presence and precise drum work

• Musical Characteristics:

  • Progressive thrash metal with complex arrangements

  • Frequent time signature changes

  • Intricate guitar harmonies and expressive solos

• Atmosphere & Mood:

  • Dark, introspective and cerebral

  • Controlled aggression rather than relentless speed

  • Futuristic and slightly dystopian

• For Fans Of:

  • Coroner

  • Progressive thrash metal

  • Technical and forward-thinking metal releases

Product Details

• Artist: Coroner

• Title: Mental Vortex

• Format: LP (2026 Reissue)

• Genre: Thrash Metal / Progressive Metal

• Label: Listenable

Manufacturer information

Listenable Records
Glienholzweg
17207 Röbel/Müritz
Germany

https://shop-listenable.net