[1][2][3][4] Called by the Buffalo News "a dominant force" in the Maniacs, Lombardo was in the group from its inception in 1981 until he left in 1986 after the release of their first major-label album The Wishing Chair, disagreeing with the direction of the band and frustrated with the lack of success.

The pair made two recordings under the name John & Mary, Victory Gardens in 1991 and 1993's The Weedkiller's Daughter.

[7][8] Lombardo returned to the Maniacs in 1994 after Natalie Merchant's departure, with Ramsey joining as the lead singer.

[9] The duo released two albums with the Maniacs: 1997's Love Among the Ruins, which contained a cover of the Roxy Music song "More Than This" that did well in the U.S. charts; and 1999's The Earth Pressed Flat.

[10][11] Lombardo continues to perform regularly with John & Mary and has rejoined 10,000 Maniacs as a touring member, contributing to their 2015 album Twice Told Tales, performing on their 2016 live album Playing Favorites, and playing regular gigs with the band.