 Mainieri was a pioneer in introducing an electronic vibraphone, known as a synth-vibe, and has recorded with such musicians as Buddy Rich, Wes Montgomery and Jeremy Steig.He performed for a live album by Laura Nyro and was featured on several tracks from the Dire Straits album "Love Over Gold" (1982), as well as on "Ride Across the River" on the album "Brothers in Arms" (1985).He performed on the albums "Heads" by Bob James, "Heart to Heart" by David Sanborn, and "Tiger in the Rain" by Michael Franks.