Mike Lewis played bass on Bright Star Cast on Bruce Hornsby’s 2020 release, Non-Secure Connection.
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Mike Lewis biography
Early life and musical beginnings
Mike Lewis is an American saxophonist and bassist from Minneapolis, Minnesota. He knew he wanted a career in music from a young age and began his musical journey at the age of ten when he first picked up the trumpet, his father’s instrument. He later switched to the saxophone and also added bass to his skill set while attending South High School. Notably, retired band director Denny Malmberg recognised his talent early on, stating that even in eighth grade, it was clear that Michael had a special gift for music-making. At 15, he enrolled at South High School to study under celebrated music teacher Dennis Malmberg, further shaping his artistic journey.
He has built lasting friendships through music, finding camaraderie with fellow musicians such as bassist Adam Linz and drummer J.T. Bates, who played a significant role in his musical development.
Formation of groups
Lewis is a founding member and saxophonist in contemporary jazz groups Happy Apple and Fat Kid Wednesdays. In 1996, he began a nearly two-decade collaboration with Erik Fratzke and Dave King as part of Happy Apple, shortly after forming Fat Kid Wednesdays with Adam Linz and JT Bates. His contributions extend to playing electric bass in Alpha Consumer and saxophone in the acclaimed band Bon Iver.
Collaborations and contributions
Throughout his career, Lewis has contributed to various projects, including Fog’s “Ditherer” and Gayngs’ “Relayted”. He has recorded and performed live with Andrew Bird’s band and Dosh and has also collaborated with artists like the Tallest Man on Earth. His versatility as a musician has made him a sought-after performer in both local and national scenes.
Recognition and style
Regarded as one of the most creative sax players in modern music, Lewis is celebrated throughout the Twin Cities and beyond. His dry, metallic tone on alto and tenor saxophones, combined with the free melodic logic of his improvisations, has drawn comparisons to legendary musicians such as Ornette Coleman and Sonny Rollins. Noted critic Richard Brody in “The New Yorker” highlighted Lewis’s ability to convey emotion in his playing, describing his solos as vulnerable and confessional, moving seamlessly from melody to wail.
Career highlights and performances
As Lewis gained prominence, he became increasingly visible in New York, performing at venues such as The Stone with Happy Apple and Fat Kid Wednesdays. He also appeared on “The Late Show with David Letterman” during his 2009 tour with Andrew Bird, where he played electric bass. His dual career as a bassist and saxophonist continues to flourish, with performances alongside Bryan Nichols’ quintet and recently with Arcade Fire.