Now 82, with an astonishing life and career mostly in the rearview mirror, blues czar Buddy Guy has presumably learned many secrets.

One I'd like to know? Where the hell is his arthritis? Clearly, his hands and fingers hurt not at all because, if you listen to him play his guitar, it could just as easily be the Buddy Guy of 40 years ago — he's still that supple and masterful. Ditto for his incredibly underrated voice, which is as smooth and wise as B.B. King's was.

Last year, Guy released "The Blues is Alive and Well," and it's a polished batch of tunes that range from thoughtful and reflective to brash and cocky. All of those things are essential to the emotional makeup of the blues, and Guy can master his feelings and translate them into meaningful music with the best of them.

Anyone who's ever seen Guy perform would testify that he's as good a showman as he is a player, so it's a treat that he returns Friday to the Garde Arts Center. There's no reason Guy can't keep up at this pace for who knows how long, but it doesn't hurt to hedge your bets. See Guy now and walk out of the show knowing you've seen a true giant.

Buddy Guy, 8 p.m. Friday, Garde Arts Center, 325 State St., New London; Grammy-winning Tom Hambridge opens; $49-$79