Finding and listening to new music, however it comes my way, is one of life’s treasures as much as a leisurely stroll through the natural serenity of Earth’s splendor. English poet William Cowper famously said in his 1785 poem, ‘The Task’, “Variety is the spice of life, That gives it all its flavour.” Through this practice and belief, I find myself exploring myriads of musical peaks, valleys, rivers, mountains, forests, beaches, and urban soundscapes to the benefit of my mind, body, and soul.
Enter Sqwerv, with Hors D’oeuvres, Part 1, a tidy EP offering delicious psyrock samplings to satiate many a musical enthusiast’s palate. Featuring three tracks titled ‘Honolulu Blue’, ‘Jada’, and ‘Miami’ (in alphabetical order), it’s a sleek ride through a smooth synthesis of instrumental craftsmanship showcasing the continuing progression of this cool Denver quartet. If you consider a production of this sort kind of like an appetizer (which I friggin’ do), I’m looking forward to the flavorful and robust assortment of dulcet delights that is undoubtedly set to follow.
I’ll start with ‘Jada’. It begins with a mellow guitar kindly strumming before the rest of the ensemble joins in. Melodious and frolicky, a lovely interplay between bass, drums, guitar, and piano develops. Soft and surreal, measured, and confident, eliciting imagery in my mind of hiking forested trails and hilly landscapes surrounded by a sea of wildflowers. Like a beautiful spring day, clear skies above and a tender sun smiling down, it’s a relaxing tune with which to groove.
Next is ‘Honolulu Blue’, with a gentle fade in of instruments before a guitar riffs, fluid licks singing dreamily high and bright. It’s delightful, and I’m doting on piano keys that inspire feelings of optimism in me. This tune excites evocation of a beautiful island paradise. It’s the kind of melody I imagine I’d enjoy while walking along a beach, waves pleasantly rolling in from the gorgeous Pacific Ocean. As I trek barefoot over warm sands, I’m headed towards a seaside saloon to acquire a berry and pineapple daiquiri to enjoy alongside this heavenly world’s cape of tropical splendor. Yea, buddy, that’s how Bear Swiftly foresees the majesty of ‘Honolulu Blue’.
‘Miami’ is my favorite track from this EP. It’s a cool composition that feels like a respectful nod to an era of modulation, while remaining true to Sqwerv’s genuine, authentic, and unique instrumental styling. Heck yes, fella. At least, that’s the impression I get. Groovy guitar licks and finger picks paced by steady drum and bass portions seems to depict a city skyline that never sleeps, sirens softly wailing in the distance. Harkening back to a time and place that feels the unabashed epitome of cool, I’m dreamily exploring a space I’d much rather be, instead of enduring the bipolar weather patterns of Illinois that I call home. This is the kind of song I’d proudly wear with sunglasses at night. As ‘Miami’ fades out, I’m left wanting more.
Hors D’oeuvres, Part 1, sounds like a fusion of genres and styles, representing Sqwerv’s continued evolution. There are elements at play that feel honed, almost cinematically, as if intended to accompany scenes worthy of a movie. A gorgeous collaboration of instrumental poetry indicates source material both classic and contemporary. This sample of songs heralds a unique set of stories the members of Sqwerv (Guy, Kaden, Jack, and Zach) are excited to share.
Hors D’oeuvres, Part 1, releases April 5th, 2024. That same day, Sqwerv will host an album release party at Globe Hall in Denver, CO. For more information on all things Sqwerv, including events and tickets, visit their website at sqwerv.com/.
Be well, be successful. Bear Swiftly.
–Electro Scribe–
