Nothing is simple when Keb’ Mo’ performs the blues

Keb’ Mo’

Byham Theater

Sunday, 7:30 p.m.

$29-$35

For more than twenty years, Kevin… Keb’ Mo’

Byham Theater

Sunday, 7:30 p.m.

$29-$35

For more than twenty years, Kevin Moore, known as Keb’ Mo’, has been playing and redefining blues. Armed with his National steel guitar, a broad smile and knowledge of various musical styles, he weaves songs that reflect life and the nature of the human condition. This Sunday, Keb’ will be bringing these sounds to Pittsburgh with a performance at the Byham Theater.

His most recent album, Keep It Simple, is his fifth release and first solo production. The album’s title is indicative of the style of his songs — Keb’s lyrics are simple, pure expressions of feeling and personal reflection — but it also seems like a contradiction. The nature of the melodies is by no means plain and simple. Each song is a rich mixture of influences ranging from country to coffee house pop, all wrapped up in a Delta Blues package. The tunes are catchy and more upbeat than most blues. Some, such as “Let Your Light Shine” or “I’m Amazing,” seem more like humanity-affirming gospels.

When he does get down and despondent, his approach to blues in modern times is both witty and insightful. The title track, “Keep It Simple,” is the story of a man who doesn’t want to complicate things in a world where the coffee menu stretches from floor to ceiling. “Prosperity Blues” decries the blues-destroying aspects of affluence with lyrics such as “My baby left me, but she came back/ when I gave her the keys to that new Cadillac.” The music is both artistic and entertaining, and can be enjoyed by both true lovers of the blues and novices alike.

Keb’ Mo’ and his band perform with special guest Kaki King at the Byham Theater Downtown Sunday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $29.00 and $35.00 and can be purchased at the box office.