As singer/songwriter Robert Earl Keen has built a reputation as one of the nation’s finest musical storytellers, he has been guided by several self-imposed rules and traditions that are often the antithesis of music industry standards.

It’s a formula that has worked well for Keen since he began performing in 1981 and paving the way for a generation of songwriters and performers who make a living on the road. He paints musical portraits that are as vivid as sunsets over the great Southwest and stories that are as compelling and timeless as Cormac McCarthy novels. But what separates the Americana music pioneer from other songwriters is that he matches this lyrical literature with irresistible melodies, resulting in music that attracts thinkers and dancers alike. His songs are infused with such deep insight and humor that a new meaning and perspective is revealed with each listen, allowing his songs to grow more profound with time.

It’s because of Keen’s confidence in his work that he had the courage to abandon his tried-and-true formula while making his new Lost Highway album and 16th release, Ready for Confetti. As a result, he has produced one of the finest albums of his career, and likely the most approachable one as well. He tackles such universal themes as losing love, living the best possible life and transcending this world into other spiritual realms.

Tickets: $29-$49