The latest from 〈SOUFFLE CONTINU〉, the label steadily reissuing cutting-edge '60s–'70s jazz and French jazz! The sole album by MACHI OUL, the grand project of Chilean-French avant-garde pianist MANUEL VILLARROEL, who left a career as a veterinarian to become a musician. Label head JEF GILSON produced, and members of the precursor SEPTET also take part in this big band. From "Bolerito" (sample1), modal jazz brimming with ensemble unity and dashes of Latin swing, to "Quetzalcoatl," a knotty piece of free jazz that engulfs atonality and minimalism alike. A free-wheeling style not even bound by the conventions of free jazz, plus a groove that makes the most of the large lineup — utterly one of a kind. A gem that rarely surfaces even on the used market. (Original Japanese text by Akie)