Plain and simple, this is a monster album. Lucky Peterson sings, plays great guitar, a lot of keyboards, and covers a lot of great songs.

The rockin’ wah-drenched cover of Ernie Isley’s “Deal With It” opens things and sets the tone. From there, things don’t let up. The minor-key funk/rock of “The Otherside” showcases Peterson’s big-toned soloing and great vocals. “Tribute to Luther Allison” is exactly what it says, and deserves its title. But Lucky’s no one-trick pony. His soulful cover of Sam Cooke’s “Shake” is guaranteed to get your butt rockin’. And his wonderful cover of Timmy Thomas’ early-’70s hit, “Why Can’t We Live Together” is pure soul. Finally, anyone who covers Johnny “Guitar” Watson’s “Ta’Ta’ You” and does the masterful job that Peterson does here is a king in my book.

Those are just a few of the highlights. There’s not a bad cut here. In fact, there’s not even a mediocre cut. They all shine. And the band cooks – Johnny B. Gayden on bass and Steve Potts on drums anchor each and every tune wonderfully.

I love this album. If you buy just one CD this month, make it this one. You won’t be disappointed.