Paella & Norimaki

Query: What happens when you mix a wacky Italian saxophonist with a wacky Italian guitarist? Answer: You get two wacky Italians, better known as "the Dato and Rocco show," almost a full hour of fun, and eccentric performances by these two established figures on the Italian music scene. These are two mean dudes, as you can tell from the album cover, with the musicians' two snarling faces peering out, tongue in cheek. And that is the strength and weakness of the album: There is some great playing by both players, but particularly from the lesser-known Rocco, whose sometimes abstract guitar really is a perfect foil for the earthy Dato. Sometimes these guys get a little goofy, and the results suffer. At times, they veer way outside, with the saxophonist indulging in avant-garde, freestyle over-blowing, while at others they fall back on simple Eastern European riffs. The duo is a good form for both Dato and Rocco, as their blend is seamless and the synchronicity splendid. While this is not Dato's best album, it is a good one and it highlights the compelling talent of both him and the guitarist. Rocco, in particular, deserves to be better known for his unique and exciting brand of guitar playing that fits well with Dato's aggressive punches.