We've done the math, and Ed Sheeran's new album, Play, equates to a new start, moving from the mathematics of his previous run of projects, especially the somber and searching sounds of Subtract (-), and into a bright pink, reflective, and explorative new motion of Play.
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"'Play' is the album that’s made me fall in love with fun again," Sheeran shared just hours into release day. "Writing and recording 'Subtract' was so cathartic but also so heavy. Going into Stereo after 'Mathematics' ended I wanted to start with the polar opposite. 'Play' celebrates love, life, culture, exploring, creativity and technicolour."
On Play, Ed oscillates between his two most beloved traits, shifting seamlessly from lovesick, first-dance-ready ballads like "Camera," to Pop perfection ready to open the dancefloor for everyone, this time with a dash of international wonder and worldly work on tracks like "Sapphire" and "Azizam." The constant is an earnest songwriter who seems reinvigorated by the new beginning that this series of albums promises.
"I’ve loved making this record and the last 6 months have been just what I needed to get back into the swing of things - to reheat my love for Pop, and popping up. It’s an album I’m immensely proud of, and just makes me feel good. I hope it does the same for you."
Play is the first of Sheeran's planned symbol-themed albums era, with Pause, Fast Forward, Rewind, and Stop to follow. But for now the GRAMMY-winning artist is at Play, back on the rides and slides of the Pop playground he's help build over the past 15 years. Play is now available everywhere.
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Don't miss Ed Sheeran, the Goo Goo Dolls, Alex Warren, and Shaboozey as they headline the 12th annual edition of We Can Survive concert event presented by VEG, ER for Pets on Friday, September 26 at Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. Get ready for a massive night of music to support our I'm Listening mental health initiative that encourages more mental health conversations, with a portion of proceeds donated to the American Foundation for Suicide. For more information visit WeCanSurvive.com.