THE GOBLIN COLLECTION 1975-1989

Delicious collection from the Italian horror cinema icons, though what really makes an impression here (an assortment of music from fourteen different films, 1975 thru 1989) is what a terrific rock band this extended family make. Four selections from cult flick 'Profondo Rosso' (Deep Red) start off with a rather Exorcist-like patter, Claudio Simonetti's Gothic dungeon organs, surprising acoustic guitar from Fabio Pignatelli and Agostino Marangolo a standout on drums. This is 1970s cult-track music at its very best, with the grand chaotic 'Wampyr' finale from '76 and various creep-funk themes from the 'Chi?' TV show. The unnerving 'Patrick' score is followed by the classic main title from 'Susperia' (1977). The impact this group had on industry music of the period is surprising, and we hear where everyone from filmmakers such as John Carpenter to modern artists like Zombi get much of their cinematic aspiration. 'La Via Della Droga' jazz-rocks right down a Manhattan alleyway on a fleet-footed chase through Central Park and straight into an urban American nightmare, 'Zombi' lumbers forward, and rich synth tones for 1979's 'Buo Omega' where the subtle nods to Pink Floyd become more prevalent but still quite original and pleasing. We also hear the non-human oddities of 'Contamination' ushering in the Terminator era, bopping fusion of 'Notturno', electronic escapades of the late 80's 'Phenomena' and 'Laz Chiesa'. Any avid listeners of Mike Oldfield, Rick Wakeman or Bo Hansson may thoroughly enjoy Goblin, and this compilation is ideal if you have no intention of searching out the bulk of their catalog.