Goblin
Roller

Even though there's already another review of this album, I too would like to pay tribute to an album that truly surprised me, in a positive way. Rediscovered (dusty) during these pre-university days of idleness, I consider it an excellent example of instrumental prog-rock, even though the album unfortunately did not garner the attention of other Italian bands of the period.

In fact, it's one of the few Goblin albums that are non-soundtrack, and this allowed the five proggers to compose and play much more freely. And that's precisely the issue: Goblin's discography is mostly comprised of soundtracks (especially for horror films), and this has made them victims of a cliché that didn't allow them, at other times, to fully express their skills. Such a pity.

Before listening to "Roller," I expected it to be quite self-indulgent (as ELP was, after all), but I ended up appreciating an unprecedented compositional ability, coupled with instrumental technique that has nothing to envy from much more acclaimed bands.

The title track is a gothic piece, further darkened by the solemnity of the organ (I think it's a Hammond): it very much recalls the atmospheres of Profondo Rosso, but in my opinion, it is more effective. "Aquaman" unfolds between acoustic arpeggios and a very intense central part, reminiscent of the Pink Floyd sound in its psychedelic-dreamlike atmosphere. "Snip Snap" is a more relaxed episode, and in my opinion, it's a track where the band shows great rapport: kitchen-scratch guitar in full funky style (wow!), impeccable rhythm section, tasty space reserved for Guarini's electric piano. "Il Risveglio del Serpente" is a piano interlude enriched with numerous effects and the intervention of the clarinet in the final part. "Goblin" is an ambitious piece, very long, a suite that presents different moments. The beginning is excellent, although in the first four minutes, the group, in my opinion, veers a bit towards virtuosity (a matter of taste, eh). The second part, however, is exceptional, with spectacular keyboard interplay creating a truly "spatial" atmosphere. I also find the final track, "Dr. Frankenstein", excellent, as it introduces us to an unsettling atmosphere through an original drumming style and good use of electronic effects.

In conclusion, in my opinion, the album is original, in the sense that it doesn't mimic British bands in a mannered way. Despite this, it slightly recalls Genesis in some more frenetic parts and presents a mysterious atmosphere somewhat comparable (always vaguely) to the debut LP of the Alan Parsons Project.

In my opinion, Goblin never managed to create a work as free from the rigid schemes of horror soundtracks again, and I regret it. "Roller" is an album rich in nuances, varied in settings, and superbly recorded, thus resulting very modern; excellent harmonies and a truly mature use of keyboards (many), without falling into baroque elements that detract from the intensity of the composition. A cult for enthusiasts.