Remember the pronunciation of his first name, because after listening to his music, you will want to know this young musical phenom even better. Tucson saxophonist Neamen Lyles offers a simple guide: "Nee-Amen," he replies. "Nee-Amen with the accent on the "A".

He's probably been asked about his first name a hundred times, but with each reply his engaging, outgoing manner draws those who know him new acquaintances and old friends alike into his growing circle of musical expression, creativity.... and, yes, love.

"My songs are about hope, excitement, inspiration and fun, " he says with the same infectious smile you soon come to expect. "My music conveys fun and entertainment that anyone can enjoy, while displaying that I'm a highly skilled musician, creative and full of passion."

On top of his self-described "brand awareness" efforts, Mr. Lyles' untiring quest of a musical career on the national stage is paying increasingly handsome dividends. Regular performances with Prime Example, one of southern Arizona's best-sounding smooth jazz ensembles, keep him busy one or more evenings per week. In recent months, the group has shared the stage with nationally-known musicians Greg Karrukas, Jeff Lorber and others. And, Neamen has also been privileged to share concert billing with another smooth jazz superstar, saxophonist Dave Koz.

Then there's his growing studio of talented young students at the Arizona Jazz Institute, where he works side-by-side with a cadre of nationally-recognized jazz instructors.

~SO FREE~

The album was produced by Jay Soto (Nu Groove Records), a nationally recognized pop guitarist/ keyboardist in his own right, and an accomplished composer/arranger. In addition to Soto, the recording features well established keyboardists Jeff Lorber (Heads Up International) and Brian Simpson (Shanachie), along with familiar star, electric bassist Mel Brown.

So Free reflects not only Neamen's deft and nuanced sax chops, but also reveals the depth of his immersion in the smooth jazz genre since his early years. "My interest in saxophone began in the sixth grade, after hearing David Sanborn on the radio. I knew right then and there I wanted to be a saxophonist, and I began practicing two hours a day from day one!" Other early influences included sax giants Gerald Albright, Eric Marienthal, Grover Washington, Jr. and, Charlie Parker, as well as pop performers Mariah Carrey and Michael Jackson.

Neamen's jazz pursuits through high school and college included participation in clinics, festivals, and international touring, culminating in 2003 with his undergraduate degree in Jazz Performance at the University of Arizona, where he worked closely with the near-legendary Jeff Haskell, Director of the UA's Jazz Studies program.

The outcome of these years of disciplined study? A facility on his instrument that is, putting it mildly, impressive to witness. Hearing the new CD magnificently produced, with world-class artists at his side one realizes that Neamen Lyles may be one of the best kept secrets in the world of smooth jazz, but not for long. The upcoming CD release, So Free will unquestionably launch this young man's career to new

heights. On top of the album release, he records for the BBC sci-fi series "Dr. Who," and, one of the CDs uplifting tracks, "Things Change," is receiving regular national airplay on The Weather Channel.

Neamen's career seems always to be starting anew, fueled by his fresh, energetic style of playing and his love of music, his fellow musicians and life itself.

"I spend every day of my life studying music, performing, practicing and teaching others to do the same. Simply put, I'm making professional maneuvers to increase the impact and reach of the ministry God has already given me."

Oh, and the name.... the brand? He says it again: "Nee-Amen. With the accent on the "A." It's getting easier to remember every day