[Ensam]

If you want to play politics go to his manager and say, "I'd like some advice for how to work better with so-and-so". Then lay out your complaints in a very matter of fact non judgemental way. If anything play it off as being more your fault than his. I.e. it's your lack of skill that prevents you from really clicking with him. If his manager is savvy he'll get the picture. And in the event that his manager loves him you won't risk alienating anybody. I've gotten problem employees moved off my team and laid off using this technique.