Neville Brothers saxophonist Charles Neville has always added an indefinable something to the family ensemble that no one else can provide: not just his intense spiritual vibe and stunning instrumental virtuosity, but even more a level of musical intelligence which both reflects and expands upon his experience as a skilled player in several musical idioms.
Charles, the second oldest Neville brother, has the most diverse musical background. His experience on saxophone has included rhythm & blues, funk, jazz, be-bop, popular and even American Indian music. He cites as influences Louis Jordan, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins and Professor Longhair. He is also the only brother that lived away from New Orleans for long periods of time, making places like New York, Memphis and Oregon his home.
The Neville Brother most known for his pursuit of Eastern spiritual knowledge is also the family's keeper of the horn. His brothers affectionately refer to him as "The Horn Man". His saxophone solo won him a Grammy in 1989 for his haunting rendition of Healing Chant on the Yellow Moon CD.
