Lt. Dan’s DJ Pick of the week is “Oh Dorian” by Ben Kweller featuring MJ Lenderman!
Ben Kweller returns from the devastating loss of his son Dorian in 2023 with “Cover The Mirrors,” released this May. Ben claimed his spot in indie folkdom with 2002’s “Sha Sha,” only 21 at the time. Since then, he’s explored a wide array of genres with wild collaborations like Jeff Tweedy, Guster, and Ben Folds to name a few. A lifelong musician, it’s no surprise his seventh album came from working through his son’s shocking passing. “Cover The Mirrors” dives into the dark corners and bright moments of grieving Dorian. Bittersweetly, Ben closes the record with “Oh Dorian,” featuring a special appearance by MJ Lenderman.
For a song titled after his late son, the energy is warm. Lyrically, this song is Ben’s letter to Dorian, reflecting on their blissful relationship fondly. We see Dorian through Ben’s eyes, in lines like “Watch him glow and radiate / when he walks through the door.” Then at the chorus, Ben softly lets out, “Oh, Dorian / where did you go?” and later, “Oh, Dorian / my best friend / I can’t wait to hang with you again.” His honesty is equally lovely and painful. Naturally, Ben conveys the feeling of spending time with his son through instrumentation, too. “Oh Dorian” is a simple folk song with shuffling acoustic guitars and bluesy piano at its root. In addition, MJ quietly adds somber leads and loose background vocals. Undeniably, this beautiful ode to his son is Ben’s way of telling the world just how great Dorian was, and how his absence looms.
Listen to “Oh Dorian” by Ben Kweller feat. MJ Lenderman below.
Tune in to 100.1 FM or lightning100.com all day to hear “Oh Dorian” by Ben Kweller feat. MJ Lenderman, Lt. Dan’s DJ Pick of the Week! Also, share your thoughts on the track by tagging #L100DJPicks on Twitter!
