What makes Grin by Coroner notable?

Grin was notable for its ambitious complexity and lyrical depth, garnering positive reviews that solidified Coroner's reputation in the metal scene. It contributed to the band's influence on progressive metal and thrash genres, serving as a touchstone for subsequent artists seeking to blend intricate musicianship with conceptual themes. Released in September 1993, Grin is Coroner's fourth studio album, following their critically acclaimed record Mental Vortex. This album marks a significant evolution in their sound, showcasing a deeper exploration of progressive metal while maintaining their thrash roots, as the band sought to innovate and push boundaries within the genre during a time when they were establishing themselves as pioneers.

Grin works well if you're into cerebral exploration of themes, dynamic peaks and valleys and immersive in-order listening.

How many songs are on Grin?

Grin has 10 tracks, running approximately 57 minutes.

Grin

Coroner · 1993

57 min · 10 tracks · progressive metal

A complex blend of progressive structures and aggressive thrash elements, layered with intricate melodies and thought-provoking lyrics.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
The Lethargic Age — This track encapsulates the album's theme of existential contemplation through its shifting tempos and dynamic structures, representing Coroner's signature sound evolution.
→
Caveat (To the Coming) — With its haunting atmosphere and complex arrangements, this song exemplifies the band’s ability to merge technical proficiency with emotional resonance.
→
Grin (Nails Hurt) — The title track stands out for its aggressive energy and poignant lyrics, making it a definitive statement on the album's overarching themes of pain and introspection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

Grin showcases complex compositions and aggressive elements, solidifying Coroner's distinct sound in progressive metal.

What we noticed

Lyrically, the album explores themes of introspection and societal issues, with a focus on thought-provoking narratives that complement the music's complexity.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

cerebral exploration of themes
dynamic peaks and valleys
immersive in-order listening
thought-provoking rhythmic intricacies

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in September 1993, Grin is Coroner's fourth studio album, following their critically acclaimed record Mental Vortex. This album marks a significant evolution in their sound, showcasing a deeper exploration of progressive metal while maintaining their thrash roots, as the band sought to innovate and push boundaries within the genre during a time when they were establishing themselves as pioneers.
Stylistic neighbors: Watchtower· Annihilator· Voivod