The Music of Steps Ahead featuring Mike Mainieri

Gardyne Theatre, Dundee June 12

Mike Mainieri was a pioneer in introducing the electronic vibraphone, known as a “synthvibe”, which featured on several tracks from the Dire Straits album Love Over Gold, as well as Ride Across the River on the record Brothers in Arms.

He has also released numerous albums and videos for a variety of labels, most notably his 1980 record Wanderlust, which featured Michael Brecker and other members of Steps Ahead.

Now, the 77-year-old New Yorker is appearing with the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra to play the music of Steps Ahead at the Gardyne Theatre.

In the 80s, advances in music technology meant Mainieri was among the first to grasp its potential by synthesising electronic sounds with the organic cool of the vibraphone.