Review
Ed Sheeran's fifth album, "= (Equals)," dropped on October 29, 2021, and signals a key chapter in his musical evolution. This one’s personal, highlighting Ed’s journey as he turns 30, becomes a father, loses a dear friend, and learns to juggle work and marriage—all with production muscles flexing from Asylum and Atlantic Records. It’s got a variety of feels in this one!
The album kicks off strong with the lead single "Bad Habits," blending electric dance elements while staying true to Ed's acoustic roots. The emotional heart pumps with tracks like "Visiting Hours" and "Shivers," which offer a peek into his personal highs and lows. Really loved the way "Overpass Graffiti" and "First Times" dive into past loves and new chapters. That nostalgic vibe hits hard in "Overpass Graffiti."
You'll also find sweet touches like "The Joker and the Queen," where Ed’s like a romantic storyteller sitting at the piano, and "Sandman," a lullaby for his daughter that tugs on the paternal heartstrings. The production here benefits from some stellar collaborations with producers like Fred Again, Johnny McDaid, and Fred Gibson, adding a sleek contemporary layer to the entire project.
"= (Equals)" is packed with themes of love, loss, and growth. Whether you’re a die-hard Ed Sheeran fan or just dipping your toes into his music, this album hits right where it counts—definitely feel it’s worth your time. - Preston
