The iconic French double-bassist Henri Texier has never been one for looking back, but on the new recording Sand Woman he reimagines pieces from his 1970s solo output on the classic French fusion label JMS, a period excellently documented on a recent 2CD compilation L'integrale – Les Annees. Alongside two newer tracks, the originals recorded more than 40 years ago, have never been played since by any of his bands. Up until now that is. In their original form, tracks including ‘Amir’ and ‘Quand Tout S'arrête’ have a beguiling folky North African-like wordless vocal stating the themes. Texier's new versions are dynamic instrumentals and he welcomes back the uniquely atmospheric contemporary jazzrockish guitarist Manu Codjia, them not having played together for five years. The underrated Codjia is the star turn, but the horns are in great shape too. Texier's sensuous, pulsating originals and handsome, swinging tone ensures top notch performances all round.