CHiPs  Aram Bajakain/Sean Noonan   (Innova) 

The duo of Sean Noonan on drums and Aram Bajakian on guitar is an inventive pairing.  Eight duo pieces take them through a variety of improvisational styles that present interesting rhythmic ideas and guitar techniques.  Both players are technically on the ball, utilizing unusual approaches in frequently shifting pieces that are playful and quirky, rhythmically assertive, sometimes melodic and often aggressive. Titles like "Scabies" or "Car Bomb" give an idea of where they're coming from.  Unfortunately the pieces also have a tendency to noodle around. Good ideas occasionally go into left field or are eaten up by technique for technique's sake.  It's fun, but not always satisfying.
On the flip side, two longer works with Jim Pugliese, Thierno Camara and Dan Magay are inserted into the program.  Most notable is "Masana" composed by Camara, the only truly melodic number on the release, which shows a much more sophisticated and focused piece of music.  "Essi" for the same grouping is by Noonan and presents a more developed sense of composition, with a lilting melody line and a great groove.  If all the pieces were as thought out as these two, the release would be a real winner.  Instead it's an inconsistent but definitely catchy set of pieces, diverting but not fulfilling.
Phil Zampino Sean Noonan / Aram Bajakian - CHiPs

Read more reviews...