PROFONDO ROSSO [AKA: DEEP RED] (OST)

After changing names from Cherry Five to Goblin following the release of their self-titled symphonic prog debut, Goblin would begin a long and successful career producing soundtracks for fellow Italian and revered horror film director Dario Argento. 'Profondo Rosso' would be the first, and the main theme, alongside the title track for Argento's seminal 1976 film 'Suspiria', would become one of the group's most-renowned and best-loved pieces, as well as being revered as one of the iconic themes of modern horror cinema. Released in 1975, 'Profondo Rosso' would kick-start a prolific and highly-rewarding few years for Goblin, with the following year seeing the group produce their first non-soundtrack album in the shape of the excellent 'Roller', which in turn would be followed 'Suspiria' and their last non-soundtrack item, the concept piece 'In Fantastico Viaggio Del Bagarozzo Mark'. Each album seemed to inform the next, and the promise of the 'Profondo Rosso' would be fully expanded into Goblin's masterpiece - the 1976 soundtrack for 'Suspiria' - an album that served not only as a superbly atmospheric film score, but also as polished album in it's own right. 'Profondo Rosso', which, stylistically speaking, is very similar, may not be an album in the way 'Suspiria' is - it lacks the range of styles - but it does feature an unsettling dynamic that lends the movie a frightening power. As an album 'Profondo Rosso' is fundamentally weak, but as a soundtrack it works almost perfectly, weaving a sinister pattern of deliciously creepy sounds and rhythms that cunningly compliments Argento's visceral cinematic style. In the shape of the title track Goblin have created a wonderful piece of music, and although the rest of the album lacks the melodic power of it's opening gambit, it's still a worthy addition to Goblin's impressive early discography. Those looking to explore Goblin fully should go for 'Roller' and 'Suspiria' first - both those albums feature an abundance of excellent songs - but for the purest evocation of Goblin's creepy style, look no further than the opening track of 'Profondo Rosso'. STEFAN TURNER, LONDON, 2010