Get Lucky -- Peterson, that is, at the Bank Street Cafe

He plays organ like James Booker and guitar like Buddy Guy and sings like Stevie Wonder.

If you're inclined to doubt such boasts, go see Lucky Peterson Friday in New London's Bank Street Café. His brand of blues, soul and gospel is anchored deep in the soil of the south, and he's spent years working juke joints across the globe, polishing his instincts and musical affections. He's got all the chops, an amazing voice, and an emotional and even spiritual investment in his craft.

If all this is true, why isn't he more famous?

Because earth is stupid, that's why.

Peterson's latest CD, "You Can Always Turn Around," due in September, is a tribute record of sorts, featuring his inspired and unique arrangements of favorite tunes by such artists as Lucinda Williams, Robert Johnson, Tom Waits and Blind Willie McTell.

- Rick Koster

Lucky Peterson, 10 p.m. Friday, Bank Street Café, 637 Bank St., New London; $10; (860) 444-1444.