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 in 2023. It was recorded at the Noise Company in Dripping Springs, Texas and released on Dorian's birthday, May 30, 2025."Cover The Mirrors CD". BenKweller.com. Rawk Tours. Retrieved September 2, 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."
Track listing
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
References