At the age of 87, Mike Mainieri certainly needs no introduction. The American vibraphonist, composer, and record producer, whose father came from Ravello, has earned his place in jazz history—particularly through his musical innovations with Steps Ahead. Synonymous with fusion, the band has released a dozen studio and live albums and given countless concerts since its inception in 1979. It was a supergroup from the very beginning, with Michael Brecker, Don Grolnick, Eddie Gomez, and Steve Gadd in the original lineup. The band was born out of improvised jam sessions at Seventh Avenue South, the New York club opened by Brecker and his older brother Randy. The all-star identity of the group was never diminished, even as new members came on board—among them Peter Erskine, Eliane Elias, Bill Evans, Marc Johnson, and Mike Stern. Now approaching ninety, Mainieri’s career is well known. Admirers and detractors alike recognize both the merits […]
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