Genre: Alternative, Indie
Hometown: Irvine, CA

Southern California-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Ehson Hashemian releases his 14-track fifth solo album, Me Then You, today. The melodic indie-rock collection — woven with atmospheric, dreamlike textures — marks Ehson’s most ambitious project yet.

A founding member of The Jakes (now Young the Giant), Ehson co-wrote their double-platinum hit “Cough Syrup,” which reached #3 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart. Since launching his solo career, he has steadily released albums including Animation (2023), Face Shine (2024), Bliss (2025), and Believe (2025), with Me Then You representing a new level of cohesion and storytelling.

“‘Me Then You’ is a concept album that tells a story and sticks to one main theme throughout,” Ehson explains. “A theme that runs through most of the album is a longing for love and friendship, and the need to eliminate hatred in the world.” Unlike his earlier albums, Me Then You was conceived as a cohesive narrative.

The album’s first and only single, “You Got It,” was released on Friday, October 17. “You Got It” stands out from the album with its dance- and electronic-driven vibe.

Several tracks draw from Ehson’s personal journey. “‘Everything’ is about counting on love and friendship to lift you up when life falls apart,” he shares. “Having faced health struggles, these songs reflect perseverance and the hope that, with time, things will get better.”