David Liebman and
Ellery Eskelin have complementary styles on tenor. Both can play in the freest of settings but are also strong hard bop improvisers when that is what the music calls for. On
Different But the Same, they contribute five originals, explore three selections based on the chord changes of "What Is This Thing Called Love," and dig into pieces by
Tadd Dameron and
Wayne Shorter. Their explorations of standards are particularly invigorating as is the interaction between the two tenors. Bassist
Tony Marino and drummer
Jim Black are both very active players, particularly on the originals which are very much musical democracies. There is enough variety in structures and moods along with consistently high-quality playing to hold one's interest throughout, and there is no shortage of passion. Recommended.