Biography
Lyle Mays' approach defied easy categorization, favoring atmospheric textures rich in distinctive hues over conventional swing while serving as an indispensable component of the Pat Metheny Group's sonic identity. In the mid-'70s he performed and composed for the North Texas State University Lab Band. Mays first encountered Metheny in 1975, spent the next two years on the road with Woody Herman's Orchestra, and subsequently entered Metheny's ensemble, remaining a constant presence in the guitarist's group. An accomplished acoustic pianist as well, he issued several leader dates on Geffen, among them the standout Fictionary in 1992 and Solo in 2000. Lyle Mays died on February 10, 2020, after a long illness.
Albums
