Ehson Hashemian drops new LP ‘Message’

Coming out of Southern California, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Ehson Hashemian has spent much of his musical life in motion. His career has been informed by collaboration, reinvention and a constant search for new forms of expression, moving between the worlds of alternative rock, atmospheric songwriting and more experimental approaches to sound. From his early involvement in a band that would become one of modern alternative rock’s most recognisable names, to his endeavours as a solo artist, Ehson’s journey has always been influenced by curiosity and a desire to keep striding forward.

His first major chapter began with The Jakes, a project that would later transform into Young the Giant and as part of the group’s initial years, Ehson helped shape a band that would go on to achieve double platinum recognition and reach number three on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart. It was a period marked by creative energy and collective ambition, but despite the momentum surrounding the project, Ehson found himself drawn towards a more personal artistic path. In 2009, he stepped away from the band, choosing to explore a different side of his creativity and establish a sound that was completely his own.

That next phase arrived under the name Backwards Forwards, where he began to develop his own musical identity. The release of the 2012 EP You Are Here and 2014’s Still Life revealed his knack for atmosphere, emotion and the quieter spaces within songwriting. Moving away from the larger-scale approach of alternative rock, these releases explored more immersive arrangements and a deeper sense of contemplation, allowing Ehson’s songwriting to shine.

In 2022, he returned under his own name with “Life Of The Party”, a single that marked the beginning of a new era and opened the door to his debut solo album Animation the following year. Over the years since then, he’s continued to share a string of well-received full-length records and now, with his sixth solo album titled Message, Ehson Hashemian continues to explore the connection between personal reflection and relatable experience. The album focuses on the struggle to form meaningful connections with others and the role of music as a way to communicate feelings that can often go unsaid.

One of the album’s intriguing elements is Ehson’s use of the strophic form, a structure often found in older African musical traditions where storytelling plays out through changes in vocal melody as opposed to shifting chord progressions. This allows each song to develop through its emotional delivery, placing emphasis on tale and expression while introducing African music influences through polyrhythmic guitar parts and minimalist production choices. Set up by “Alright,” the soft bounce of plucked guitar notes ushers in the shuffle of metallic percussive energy and breezy instrumental elements as Ehson’s expressive voice dances above to craft a delightful pop-tinged jam.

“Anything” follows with lively guitar strums as pulsing bass notes and rustling drums form an energising backdrop for Ehson’s buoyant vocal leads to deliver memorable melodic lines. “Been Through” presents a mellow groove where intricate guitar layers, pattering percussion and tender vocal delivery combine to deliver a a charming indie pop scene full of storytelling lyricism. Other highlights on the album include songs like “Hold On” with its smooth grooving sway and bright instrumental touches capped by rich vocals, resulting in a laid back outing that’s memorable and highly unique.

Title track “Message” pairs fluttering guitar tones and tapped drums as Ehson’s alluring voice glides above to cast a truly charming musical moment that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face. “New Direction” flows with a soft rhythmic pulse and emotive lyrics while “Something With It” flows with the jittery flash of bubbling instrumental tones and driving percussion as airy vocals drift above the invigorating arrangement to deliver a thoroughly compelling sound.

“Too Good To Be True” brings an uplifting sound of uptempo rhythms and colourful instrumental layers as smooth vocals form an instantly catchy song. Closing track “When There Was You” slows things down slightly to deliver a heartfelt finale to Ehson Hashemian’s superb new album. After years spent exploring different musical landscapes, Ehson Hashemian’s latest work represents another step in an ongoing artistic adventure. Message captures an artist looking backwards at everything that’s shaped him while continuing to move ahead, creating music that reflects both where he has been and where he is going next.

Listen to Message below