Keb Mo: Keb Mo

Keb' Mo': The Blues Master With a Deep History

Kevin Roosevelt Moore, better known as Keb' Mo', was born in 1951 – a surprisingly early start for an artist many fans only discovered in the 1990s. While most blues enthusiasts first encountered him with his 1994 self-titled breakthrough album, Mo's musical journey began much earlier with his 1980 debut "Rainmaker" on Chocolate City Records.

Widely regarded as "a living link to the seminal Delta blues that travelled up the Mississippi River and across the expanse of America," Keb' Mo' crafts a post-modern blues style that seamlessly blends folk, rock, jazz, pop, and country influences. His stage name originated with drummer Quentin Dennard, who coined the "street talk" abbreviation that was later adopted by his record label.

After years of performing and traveling across the country honing his Delta blues craft, Mo released his eponymous album in 1994 – widely considered his most impressive work to date.

The Vinyl Verdict
Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs reissued "Keb' Mo'" in 2011 as part of their GAIN 2™ Ultra Analog Original Master Recording Series. The release was mastered by longtime MoFi engineer Krieg Wunderlich with assistance from Rob LoVerde. Worth noting is this pressing's timing – it may incorporate digital steps in what was advertised as an all-analog process, as MoFi began incorporating digital elements in 2011.


Like many Wunderlich masters, this release struggles with harsh highs that occasionally produce sibilance. However, when the mastering works, it delivers excellent clarity in Mo's vocals and detailed guitar reproduction. Quality control issues are evident – some pressings arrive with debris on the vinyl, creating noise issues that improve significantly after proper cleaning.

Is the MoFi the definitive version? Not necessarily. Music On Vinyl's 2015 edition (reissued in 2019) commands similar prices but offers a less harsh listening experience, potentially making for a better overall choice for many listeners.  💵

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