Album Review: Someone You Can Believe In by Arlie

By Rowyn Belt

Arlie has laid it all down on the table with his first independent album, SOMEONE YOU CAN BELIEVE IN. This musical storybook tells the story of Arlie and Emily, two people who fall in love and find themselves on a wild adventure. This work is not only entertaining, but beautifully produced and full of life. Concept albums are a beast not many do well, but Arlie’s is flawlessly executed.

The album features the title track, 13 songs listed as chapters, and a song after every “chapter.” At 51 minutes, the storybook is perfect for a drive, walk, or bikeride, holding engagement throughout with unique production and Arlie’s fantastic pop vocals. The album was released on Dec. 12, 2025, at the perfect time for students around the world needing something to take their minds off of final exams, or to listen to over their winter breaks.

This story was being told before the album ever got released, with leading singles new archetype and dogs of music city being released over a year prior to the full album. The initial version of this album was released March 29, 2025, but it was only available on YouTube. This take on the album had 31 songs, and was taken down before the official album was released. Besides being a great way to gauge interest, it’s also an effective tactic for anticipation in an audience, and Arlie created just that with this test-release of his masterful storybook. On September 12, the indie pop artist announced the official release for SOMEONE YOU CAN BELIEVE IN, a “musical narrative experience.” This announcement paved the path to an amazing story, and a truly unforgettable independent release.

Some standouts from Arlie’s storybook are left behind, ley lines, and a new archetype, all bringing different musical ideas to this album. Left behind really embraces the high energy that Arlie had brought to prior projects, where ley lines creates a gritty ambience that brings forward the production style that’s prevalent throughout the entire album. A new archetype is the perfect, laid-back groove to end the album with, using a fade-out ending to allow the album to repeat itself seamlessly.

Though the first volume of this narrative adventure has only been out for a month, fans are already burning with curiosity for Emily and Arlie’s story. Without perfectionism in Arlie’s way this album is raw and real, allowing deep connection to the story and its characters. Whether it be Emily and her need to prove herself, or Arlie and his hunger for love, there’s personalities for everybody. As we wait patiently for the next release, we’ll keep this LP on repeat until we memorize the story.