The Reflection

While Keb’ Mo’ came to mainstream attention as a blues artist, his talents reach further than any single genre. 2011’s self-produced *The Reflection* features a solid set of tunes that turn away from the blues and settle into a laid-back R&B/soul gait. Mo’s vocals are always assured and it’s his easeful way with a tune that lends a generous empathy to “All the Way,” “The Reflection (I See Myself In You)” and the cover of the Eagles’ “One of These Nights.” India.Arie guests on the smooth groove of “Crush On You.” Best of all, however, is Mo’s duet with Vince Gill on the touching retro-soul track, “My Baby’s Tellin’ Lies.” His determination on “We Don’t Need It,” the great ensemble playing on “Just Lookin’” and the light funk driving “Something Within” all point up a man who can breathe new life into everything he sings. The *Deluxe Edition* features three cuts from the album performed with acoustic guitar and vocal for intimate results.

Being labeled and marketed as a blues musician was never really a good fit for Keb' Mo'.

Keb Mo's 1994 eponymous debut showcased a guitar-playing, blues-inflected troubadour who owed as much to Robert Johnson and Son House as anyone else.