Although I would recomend the layer mask (it not hard to install) the answer is yes you can by using a clipping layer.

Have your two layers showing in the layers pallet

1-Click on the background layer and add a levels adjustment layer do not make any adjustment to the levels.

2- Click on the top layer and choose from the top bar Layer > Group with previous or use Ctrl+G.

3- Click on the Adjustment layer mask and use the brush or gradiant and black paint to reveal and white to hide..just like a layer mask.

I have enclosed a screen grab for you to understand better.