Review
Ed Sheeran's '- (Subtract)' is a raw, unfiltered journey through the artist's soul. This 2023 release sees Sheeran strip away the pop veneer, returning to his roots as a singer-songwriter with a collection that feels like pages torn from a personal diary. The album's emotional depth is palpable, each track a brushstroke in a portrait of grief, resilience, and hope.
Collaborating with Aaron Dessner of The National, Sheeran has crafted an album that ebbs and flows like the tide of human emotion. From the folk-inspired whispers to sweeping orchestral crescendos, the production serves as a perfect complement to Sheeran's introspective lyrics. Songs like 'Eyes Closed' and 'Life Goes On' are haunting elegies to loss, while 'Dusty' offers a glimmer of light in the darkness.
This album is a testament to the transformative power of art in the face of adversity. Sheeran's ability to weave his personal experiences into universally resonant narratives shines through in tracks like 'Borderline' and 'Colourblind'. '- (Subtract)' is more than just music; it's a cathartic experience that invites listeners to confront their own emotions and find solace in shared human experiences. - Maeve
Artist Bio
Ed Sheeran is a singer-songwriter from England who started releasing music independently in the late 2000s, breaking through with his debut album + in 2011. His style blends pop, folk, and R&B influences, with a knack for catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics on hits like “Shape of You” and “Thinking Out Loud.” Ed has won multiple Grammys, collaborated with artists like Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber, and is often compared to James Blunt, Shawn Mendes, and Lewis Capaldi. He’s recognized for his laid-back, everyman image and massive worldwide success.
