Louis Sclavis, now recognized as one of the most important voices in European jazz, introduces a new band, with only bassist Bruno Chevillon retained from his previous ECM recordings. Blending strong jazz soloing (with trumpeter Jean-Luc Cappozo making a particularly impressive showing) with elements drawn from contemporary composition, free improvising, and real and imaginary folklore, Sclavis has come up with a very convincing musical statement. Compositions include the suite-length 'Hommage à Lounès Matoub', dedicated to the memory of the Algerian protest singer murdered in 1998.

Louis Sclavis Quintet:

- Louis Sclavis (clarinet, bass clarinet, soprano saxophone)

- Jean-Luc Cappozzo (trumpet)

- Vincent Courtois (cello)

- Bruno Chevillon (double bass)

- François Merville (drums)

Tracklisting:

1. L’affrontement des prétendants

2. Distances

3. Contre contre

4. Hors les murs

5. Possibles

6. Hommage à Lounès Matoub

7. Le temps d’après

8. Maputo Introduction

9. Maputo

10. La mémoire des mains