Goblin

Introduction to Profondo Rosso

Released in 1975, Profondo Rosso is the soundtrack album for Dario Argento's film of the same name, known internationally as Deep Red. This project marked the first collaboration between the Italian progressive rock band Goblin and the filmmaker. The album was issued by the Cinevox label and recorded at Orthophonic Recording Studio in Rome in February 1975.

Collaboration and Composition

The soundtrack features a unique blend of musical styles, combining Goblin's rock-oriented sound with jazz influences from composer Giorgio Gaslini. The first three tracks were exclusively composed and performed by Goblin. Tracks four through seven include contributions from Gaslini, who composed two pieces that Goblin performed. The final two tracks were orchestrated and conducted by Gaslini without Goblin's involvement. This collaborative approach resulted from Argento's dissatisfaction with Gaslini's initial score, leading to Goblin being brought in to replace the original music.

Musical Elements and Structure

The album runs approximately 29 minutes and 25 seconds in total. Goblin’s tracks, such as “Profondo Rosso” and “Death Dies,” exhibit a dynamic blend of rock elements characterized by driving rhythms and eerie melodies. In contrast, Gaslini’s contributions introduce a more orchestral and jazz-oriented texture, particularly in the pieces he composed and conducted. The interplay between these contrasting musical approaches creates a varied listening experience that mirrors the film’s intense and suspenseful narrative.

Production Credits

The album features various production credits that contribute to its overall sound. Goblin arranged and performed the music, while Carlo Bixio served as the artistic coordinator. Giorgio Agazzi was responsible for engineering the recordings, and Claudio Bianchi provided the photography for the album cover. These contributors played essential roles in bringing the soundtrack to life, ensuring a polished final product that complements the visual elements of the film.

Release Information

Profondo Rosso was released on vinyl format, typical for albums of its time. The combination of Goblin's rock sound with Gaslini's orchestration makes this soundtrack a distinctive part of the progressive rock and film soundtrack genres. It serves as a historical piece documenting the creative process behind a significant film in Italian cinema.

The album was recorded in February 1975.