Cover the Mirrors
Cover the Mirrors is the seventh studio album by American singer-songwriter Ben Kweller. The album is partially a tribute and remembrance of Kweller's 16-year-old son, Dorian, who tragically died in a car accident. It was recorded at NoiseCo in Dripping Springs, Texas and released on Dorian's birthday, May 30, 2025.
Background
"Optimystic" was released as the first single of the album on December 13, 2024. It was followed by the second and third singles, "Dollar Store" and "Oh Dorian" on February 12 and May 27, 2025.Critical reception
Reviews of the album were generally positive, with many referencing its emotional depth and tribute function.AllMusic's Fred Thomas rated the album 4.5 stars, calling it an "expression of crushing grief delivered with...hope and optimism."
Abby Johnston of The Austin Chronicle described the album as "honest, dynamic, and ripped wide open," highlighting "Oh Dorian" and "Dollar Store" as emotional anchors.
John Moore of New Noise called it "an emotional wrecking ball" and "a beautiful distillation of a father's love, admiration, and uncertainty."
Personnel
- Ben Kweller – vocals, guitars, keys
- Chris Mintz-Plasse – bass
- Ryan Dean – drums
- Warren Hood – strings
- Waxahatchee – vocals on "Dollar Store"
- Coconut Records – vocals and keys on "Depression"
- The Flaming Lips – guitars and keys on "Killer Bee"
- MJ Lenderman – guitars on "Oh Dorian"
Production
- Producer – Ben Kweller
- Audio engineer – Steve Mazur
- Assistant engineer – Jackson Baker
- Mastering engineer – Howie Weinberg