The Goblin Collection 1975-1989 is a marvelous compilation of this Italian band’s rare tracks and famed scores, mainly from some of Italy’s most profound horror movies. The organ and keyboard work from core member Claudio Simonetti is the basis of Goblin, conjuring up sinister sounding electronic wafts that seep into an attic of guitar, violin, and mandolin. The mood that arises throughout their music is frighteningly ominous and downright creepy, and the combination of strings and synthesizers lurk and then pounce from every musically darkened corner. Although this collection involves outtakes and rarities, the menacing quality of their compositions is prevalent on each track. The most daunting and spine-chilling examples of their progressive instrumentation come from the films Profondo Rosso, Suspiria, and Zombi, all from the mid- to late ’70s. Within these three tracks, the keyboards are used intelligently and effectively so that they invoke the ultimate in suspense and fear, from their threatening tonal presence to their cloud-like lingering. The violins and guitars are added to increase the eeriness with their mysterious subtlety and suspenseful tranquility. All of the instruments do a splendid job of creating a terrifying atmosphere without any visual implications, making Goblin one of the more unique sounding bands to evolve in the arena of synthesizer-based music. This assortment makes for an excellent starting point into this group’s bizarre material. – Mike DeGagne