Texas-based singer-songwriter Ben Kweller has announced his seventh studio album, Cover The Mirrors, set for release on Friday, May 30, 2025, in honor of what would have been his late son Dorian Zev’s 19th birthday. This marks Kweller’s first album since Dorian’s tragic passing at age 16 in 2023. The album will be released through The Noise Company, and vinyl pre-orders are now available.
The album’s lead single, “Optimystic,” debuted on all digital streaming platforms.
Reflecting on the project, Kweller shared in a press release:
“This is the most personal, emotionally raw project I’ve ever worked on. When Dorian died in 2023 I was overcome with the need to make music. I didn’t care what came out of me because it was the only way I could find peace in my earth-shattering grief. It’s hard not to focus on everything I’ve lost and in the depths of my sorrow I realized that something was gained. I can only describe it as an additional layer in the spectrum of understanding. My highs are higher and my lows are lower. My love is deeper and my calling is stronger. Cover The Mirrors is helping me cope with my new reality and these songs are part of that journey.”
Kweller, 43, is celebrated for his storytelling, evoking vivid memories that transport listeners to moments of happiness or sadness. With Cover the Mirrors, he channels his grief into a purpose-driven exploration of heartbreak and healing.
The album, recorded in October 2024 at NoiseCo Studio in Dripping Springs, Texas, features 12 tracks with contributions from his tour bandmates Chris Mintz-Plasse (bass) and Ryan Dean (drums). It also boasts collaborations with notable artists such as Waxahatchee on “Dollar Store,” MJ Lenderman on “Oh Dorian,” The Flaming Lips on “Killer Bee” and Jason Schwartzman’s project Coconut Records on “Depression.”
Despite his loss, Kweller’s candid reflections on loss have inspired people worldwide. With Cover the Mirrors, he draws from this deep well of emotion to craft an album that showcases a renowned singer-songwriter at the height of his creative power.
Preorder Cover The Mirrors now.
Tracklist
1. Going Insane
2. Dollar Store (Feat. Waxahatchee)
3. Trapped
4. Park Harvey Fire Drill
5. Depression (Feat. Coconut Records)
6. Don’t Cave
7. Optimystic
8. Brakes
9. Killer Bee (Feat. The Flaming Lips)
10. Letter To Agony
11. Save Yourself
12. Oh Dorian (Feat. MJ Lenderman)
Keep up with Ben Kweller: Instagram // Spotify // Facebook // TikTok
