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