LEWISTON – Although he began his musical career dabbling in experimental jazz, Kelly Joe Phelps soon made a life-changing discovery of classic blues. He has delved into the songbook of the old masters and created his own virtuosic and improvisational take on the pain and the passion of this American art form.

Friday, Oct. 19, he will bring his soulful story-songs and fingerstyle guitar-playing to The Maple Room. He is on a fall/winter tour promoting his rootsy album and Rounder Records debut, “Tunesmith Retrofit.”

Although his musical foundation remains country-blues and folk music, there is nothing traditional or predictable about Phelps’ lyrical approach. Highlights include tributes to folk legend Dave Van Ronk (“MacDougal”) and acclaimed songwriter/guitarist Chris Whitley (‘Handful of Arrows,” featuring Phelps’ recording debut on banjo).

Relix magazine describes Phelps as “an incredible guitar player [and] one of the best understated singer/songwriters out there.”

The show will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the intimate performance space and listening room at 22 Park St. Tickets, $25, are available at www.TheMapleRoom.info.