Review of Joseph's CD This Life by Jeff Charney, viewable in its entirety at ContemporaryJazz.com.

What makes a saxophonist a staple on the Smooth Jazz scene and others not? Sometimes it’s who you know. You should know Joseph Vincelli.

This Life is Vincelli’s 10th CD. I have always dug and played Vincelli on my radio show. I’ve always thought he was pretty good, but this CD is as good as any that the "big boy" record companies are pushing. "Always Ready" kicks off the CD. Very up, poppy and soulful with Vincelli adding a nice little background flute work to his steady saxophone playing. Vincelli picks Al Green’s "Let’s Stay Together" as his lone cover song (11 originals). It’s a great song and Vincelli does no harm to it. Though it’s mostly an instrumental you’ll sing to it, I guarantee it. "Stop Six" has a Boney James feel. You’ll like it. "Arrival" is a piece that perked my ears up instantly. Just a fun melody and fine playing.

I’m serious. I’d put Vincelli up against guys like Boney, Richard Elliot, Kirk Whalum or any of the other "in crowd" Smooth Jazz players. This CD is a good one to add to your collection. A major label should try to pick Vincelli up. This CD is available through www.josephvincelli.com.