An empowering, melodic rock sound radiates throughout Believe, the new album from Ehson Hashemian. The Southern California-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist excels with a colorfully magnetic aesthetic, at points resembling a cross between Talking Heads and Vampire Weekend in its trickling guitars, playful rhythmic flairs, and expressive vocal range.
The album’s approachable, replay-inducing productions pair with a memorable thematic hold, emphasizing the power of being honest with oneself when facing personal tumult — resulting in an inspirational, motivational call-to-action to embrace hope and inner-confidence. Opening track “Accept” wastes no time in declaring as such, ruminating on “all the things you got to accept” — from the moment “that came and went” to certain individuals that impact your life; a carpe-diem sentiment seems to emanate within a hypnotic yet effervescent charm to kick off the album.
The title track then arises with a crisp, twanging breeziness — urging “you got to believe in the morning light” and capturing the pivotal role of optimism, in general, even when the streets “are filled with despair.” The depictions of light as a positive, guiding force are also apparent on “Follow The Light,” where a jazzy rhythmic peppiness pairs with enthused vocals — fondly echoing that Talking Heads likeness — within a title-touting beckoning and “we can heal the nation” hopefulness for humanity as a whole to push toward betterment and “help each other get through.”
An especially melodic grip takes hold on “It Is What It Is,” where glistening guitars and steady percussion surround a mantra-like headiness that resembles an embrace of existence and the beauty of cooperation. The ensuing “Live And Learn” continues the hypnotic sense of immersion, infusing frolicking guitars and chiming, caressing piano adornments with the “you live and you learn” reminder that not all paths result in immediate gratification — though still have the potential for fulfilling learning experiences. Believe is commendable for acknowledging trials and tribulations, rather than pretending they don’t exist, while still touting the power of positivity.
Album finale “When It’s Time” achieves a moodier, forlorn folk-laden initial admission of trouble being everywhere — though quickly accompanied by the “no need to be scared / we are always prepared” comfortability. The reflective acoustics and subdued vocal introspection consume alongside a lyrical prowess that’s enjoyably representative of the album overall — which plays as a riveting listening experience, melding melodic rock and pop appeal with poignant pushes to embrace honesty and optimism as one navigates through life.
