SECRET ENIGMA (1968-1981) OST by Andrzej Korzynski 2LP

Of his numerous film scores, the only one attached to a film widely appreciated by American and worldwide audiences is for the 1981 surrealist horror movie Possession, which is primarily known for a host of other reasons besides its soundtrack. No, Korzynski hasn't gotten much play outside of his native Poland, and this collection from the ever-reliable Finders Keepers Records is the perfect display for why that's a shame.

The composer's incredible range is apparent from the first two minutes: the short, atonal and harrowing "Trying to Catch a Fly" gives way to the very funky "La Grabuge" with a segue so natural; the latter track is so groovy, it's hard to believe it sprung from a mind even familiar with the soundscape of the opener. These are the two extremes Korzynski seems most interested in exploring - spooky and funky - but he goes about it in a bunch of different ways, sometimes achieving both at the same time. The mourning, moody "Opetanie Five" is all goth atmosphere, but it's followed up immediately by the bouncy, fun "Saved from Oblivion," which in turn is followed by the balancing act of "Tajemnica Enigmy," which is all evil madhouse energy attached to an ecstatic carnival beat. And we're just through the first 6 tracks.

“Ludicrous breakbeats and frayed pastoral wistfulness ” - MOJO