Ehson Hashemian – Believe (Album Review)

Upbeat alternative that feels like a walk under the sun;

Ehson Hashemian is a singer‑songwriter and multi‑instrumentalist from Southern California whose music not only blends heartfelt storytelling but also a profound sense of artistry. Early in his career, he played a pivotal role in the band The Jakes (now known as Young the Giant), contributing as keyboardist and co‑writer. Even in those days, Ehson found his voice through song—beginning as a vocalist in adolescence and quickly tuning into songwriting and instrumentation.

While his time with the band ended in 2009 to pursue his solo career, he still scored a standout hit with “Cough Syrup.” The track not only became a landmark song but also peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart. It gained further popularity on MTV’s The Real World: Brooklyn and A&E’s The Beast—but the chapters fully written by Ehson were only just ahead.

For his solo project Backwards Forwards and the EP You Are Here in 2012, Ehson demonstrated his experimental, more introspective side. Alongside his full‑length studio album Still Life in 2014, he introduced a unique, fresh sound that became cemented under his name.

Since then, much has changed in Hashemian’s career. He released Animation in 2023, followed by Face Shine in 2024, Bliss in January 2025, and now his fourth studio album, Believe.

So let’s take a look at what Ehson brings this time:

As soon as I heard the whole thing, I highlighted two things. First, the artist certainly has a signature sound. If you listen closely to the beginnings of the tracks, you’ll hear similar guitar chords and riffs setting the inception of each song. Whether it’s dynamic guitar flowing into punchy drums or the mood‑setting riff on “When It’s Time,” you can clearly tell it’s his touch.

Second is his execution on the hooks. Throughout the album, you hear build‑ups—from quirky, playful guitar sounds on “Standing There” to something less jumpy but still catchy on “In The Open.” Ehson slowly draws you into captivating, memorable hooks that transition into his balanced vocals.

Those two elements are the main components creating such an immersive experience. What I like most about the pace is that it never feels rushed, yet it rarely drags.

Tracks are usually hook‑driven, particularly “Feel” and “Do,” which craft a minimalistic, textural layer all around. Whether a song has a bright execution or slides into bittersweet territory, the production feels hypnotic and hazy. A purposeful driving tempo, later slowed by gentler kicks and guitar interludes, balances grace with emotional vulnerability.

Speaking of emotions, the record’s dreamy sounds—quietly elegant and subtle—welcome rather than confront you. The velvety vocals give each track a lush feel, adding intricacy within minimalism. The static yet steady drums occasionally punch in, adding momentum and weight, incrementally building the overall wave.

Beyond the bright moments, the quirky, cheerful production notes translate curiosity and nostalgia. Ehson’s emotional lyrics feel uplifting and endearing, making the record even more charming. Thanks to this gentle yet layered dynamic, the album easily draws you into its mood and keeps you there.

That said, the record does feel a bit on the longer side. Some songs circle around similar tones and motifs, slightly diminishing the overall impact.

SCORE/GOOD: Believe is a great record. It sets its pace from the start and maintains it until the more melancholic, chef’s‑kiss ending. A thoughtfully crafted album that demonstrates Ehson Hashemian’s distinct sound and masterful hook execution. Artist really blends the nostalgia with fresh textures, and familiar and tonal grounds that feels charming and introspective. Fans of alternative music looking for an upbeat yet emotionally nuanced record will greatly appreciate this one.

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