This invention relates to compounds and methods for the inhibition of HDAC enzymatic activity. More particularly, the invention provides for compounds of formula (I), (I) and N-oxides, hydrates, solvates, pharmaceutically acceptable salts, prodrugs and complexes thereof, and racemic and scalemic mixtures, diastereomers and enantiomers thereof, wherein L, M, n, R, W, X and Y are as defined in the specification.