Artist Spotlight
Sqwerv to Debut “Mirage” at Cervantes’ Otherside Album Release Show on September 7
Denver’s psych-rock band Sqwerv’s new studio album, Mirage, marks a departure from the stripped-down simplicity of its Hors D’oeuvres EP series—a trio of bite-sized offerings with three to four songs on each that the band recorded earlier this year in their living-room practice space.
“‘Hors D’oeuvres’ trilogy was more of a palate cleanser. The songs were stripped-down and experimental with extended jams, while the music on ‘Mirage’ is more complex, composed, and utilizes the benefits of a music studio to the fullest,” notes guitarist and vocalist Guy Frydenlund. “The goal with this one was to keep improvisation at a minimum and precision and composition front and center.”
Alongside bassist Caden Kramer, keyboardist Jack Marty, and drummer Zach Bulgarelli, Frydenlund weaves elements of theater, foley artistry, and synth-infused grooves into its music bedrock that covers everything from heavy metal riffs to gentle acoustic guitar passages.
The four-piece will debut songs off Mirage live on Saturday, September 7, at their album release show at Cervantes’ Otherside, the same day the record is available on all streaming platforms. Chirp and Denver-based Break Signals are also on the bill.
Recorded in February 2024 at The Keep Recording studios in Denver, the seven-song Mirage explores a variety of sounds, incorporating multiple guitar tones, keyboards, pianos, and string sections. “We crafted ‘Mirage’ with vocal harmonies, layered instrumentation, and studio-driven production so that each track feels like its own unique journey,” says Frydenlund.
Boasting assorted sonic elements throughout the effort, some cuts on Mirage include “King George,” which introduces a lush string section composed by Marty, ushering the band’s first foray into orchestral arrangements in the studio. “Polaris” ventures into new territory with its blend of heavy psychedelic riffs. Notably, the two cuts “Morning Song” and “King George” feature lead vocals by Kramer and Marty, introducing their debut as vocalists on a Sqwerv studio album.
A standout track on the album, “When the Dust Settles,” delivers a cinematic experience with its theatrical sound design. “We wanted something that could sonically transport listeners onto a ship sailing the open ocean, conjuring an adventure reminiscent of The Odyssey,” explains Frydenlund, referencing the poem by the ancient Greek poet Homer.
You might be surprised to discover that Sqwerv’s catalog spans from twelve-minute prog epics to concise, two-minute love songs. “We enjoy complex Phish songs, but we also really like simple Khruangbin or Mac DeMarco tracks.”
If you’re catching Sqwerv debuting their new tracks at Cervantes’ Otherside, don’t be surprised if the band lets the jams breathe and stretch. As Frydenlund puts it, “The beauty of these songs is that they have room to extend.”
This approach of letting “the music do the talking” is a testament to Sqwerv’s growth since their formation in 2017. What began with local open jams and gigs at smaller clubs has evolved into support slots for iconic acts like George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic at the Ogden Theater. Sqwerv has also shared the stage with notable bands such as Spafford, Magic Beans, Squeaky Feet, Eminence Ensemble and more.
“We put a lot of effort into building a genuine connection with our audience, the music, and ourselves,” Frydenlund concludes. “We dedicate time to honing our craft and growing as musicians, and we aim to showcase that on stage, letting our true voice speak for itself.”
Sqwerv, 8 p.m./doors 7 p.m. Saturday, September 7, Cervantes’ Otherside, 2637 Welton Street, Denver. Tickets are $27.90.
Follow Sqwerv:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Sqwerv
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sqwerv
Website: https://sqwerv.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3xrbKno8shx3H22Xz8omC8
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sqwerv1796/featured
BandCamp: https://sqwerv.bandcamp.com
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“An Invite” by Carmen Braden stirs an ethereal sonic ode of memory woven in empowering choice
There’s a cinematic feel to “An Invite,” the second single from acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter Carmen Braden’s new album, ‘A Hard Light,’ offers an enchanting amalgamation of sound and emotion. This stunning track encapsulates the feeling of looking back on a significant moment in life, eliciting a sentiment of nostalgia intertwined with the strength derived from choices that ultimately define our identities.
The song features a distinctive marimba melody, which Carmen created in collaboration with producer Mark Adam. This introductory sensibility set the stage for a narrative centered on a young woman grappling with essential decisions while being distant from home. The composition evocatively highlights the gravity of those moments and the empowerment they can facilitate, allowing listeners to revisit a personal memory in conjunction with Carmen’s experience.
Carmen’s vocal delivery is spooky yet beautiful, making it feel like she’s sharing a personal tale from the past. She works alongside Cas Palmer from Nova Scotia, creating a warm, friendly vibe that resembles an honest, heartfelt conversation, mirroring the intimate dialogue accompanying profound decision-making. The marimba’s consistent rhythmic beat underscores the cyclical essence of memory while integrating diverse musical styles, generating an enjoyable auditory experience that is both calming and energizing.
Each note reflects her experiences, celebrating vulnerability and courage in the face of life’s crossroads. This song invites listeners to reflect on the importance of our choices and the strength we possess, especially during uncertain times. “An Invite” showcases Carmen Braden’s exceptional talent by merging storytelling with an innovative soundscape. For anyone who has faced difficult decisions, this track is relatable, eye-opening, and profoundly impactful.
For more information about Carmen Braden, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Carmen Braden’s “An Invite“ on Spotify.
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Artist Spotlight
Remy Reilly Brings Soulful Fire in New Anthem ‘Dirty Work’
With every notice she sings, Remy Reilly makes you experience like she’s lived one hundred lives, and her ultra-modern launch, “Dirty Work,” isn’t any exception. Reilly’s one-of-a-kind pop-rock sound paired with her uncooked, soulful vocals makes “Dirty Work” an emotional rollercoaster that doesn’t let you off till you’ve confronted every bit of ache from past relationships—and come out more potent on the other facet.
“Dirty Work” is a candid confessional, deepening into the aftermath of betrayal. Reilly’s lyrics, steeped in vulnerability and self-reflection, explore the fear of intimacy and the relentless questions we ask ourselves after being harmed: “Am I enough?” “Will I ever be enough?” Her honesty creates a poignant reference to anybody who has discovered themselves lost in self-doubt and insecurity. But it’s now not all bleak—Reilly crafts an anthem of resilience, showcasing her journey to reclaim her self-confidence after heartbreak.
The effective manufacturing from John Pedigo at Modern Electric Sound Recorders enhances Reilly’s narrative superbly, enveloping her raspy, emotional delivery with a soundscape that propels her message forward. Each notice appears like a step taken towards the last purpose of self-attractiveness and personal empowerment. Todd Pipes’ studying of “Dirty Work” is the final contact that gives this tune its polished side, making it now not just a tune but an experience.
Whether you’re restoring from a past date or, in reality, want a reminder of your very own strength, “Dirty Work” hits its subjects. Remy Reilly’s honesty, vulnerability, and unapologetic resilience are precisely what we need to close out the 12 months—proof that even if others fail us, the work we do on ourselves is never in vain.
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