Media Diary: Review

Ed Sheeran 'X' Review

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Ed Sheeran's second album 'X', pronounced 'multiply' is his second album and the follow-up of debut album '+', as in 'plus'. This title promises to increase things distinctively as he sinks deeper into feelings of love and jealously in comparison to his debut album. When looking at the album as a whole, the melodies flow, rhythms groove and has deep lyrics which made him so immediately perceptible when first hearing 'The A-Team' three years ago. 

The album's lead single 'Sing', released in April of this year, debuted straight to number one in the UK making it Ed's first number one single to reach number one in the UK. The Pharrell produced hit was at one point not considered to be the lead single but the risk has ultimately paid off drawing in more of a mainstream audience across the world. 

The core of Ed's appeal is his range in contemporary music styles; from his expressive ballads such as 'One' to his edgy rock sound in 'I'm a Mess' to even poetic hip hop 'The Man' and 'Take it Back'. Overall they're all significantly great songs with lyrics that feature a real sense of courage. Lyrics include "All my senses come to life, when I'm stumbling home as drink as I have ever been" as heard in 'One'. Vocals in this songs scale to a more gentle tone but the power heard in his lyrics is compelling. Also, like 'Give Me Love' which can be heard on his debut album, 'Afire Love' and 'I'm a Mess' build into anthemic endings which can be imagined to finish off future live shows. For example  the lyrics 'for how long I love my lover' gradually build up with Ed's strong raspy vocals until it eventually comes to a finish.

Overall Ed Sheeran uses his music to express emotion and essentially stays try to himself when writing his music, The wide range of music styles enables this album to be listened to by a wide range of people therefore I definitely recommend you listen to it.

The Telegraph: "genuinely great"
Digital spy: "Darker, snappier and loaded"