Album Review: Ed Sheeran, Autumn Variations

Beloved English superstar Ed Sheeran has brought forth his second album of the year, titled Autumn Variations. The 'Galway Girl' crooner is a bit like marmite - you either love him or hate him - and for some of us, you could take it or leave it. However, it's undeniable he writes a cracking tune, and seems like a lovely lad.

Autumn Variations marks Sheeran's first venture away from mathematics related album titles - and with this comes a slight sound change for the artist. The new album is fresher, explores more sounds, and generally takes a step outside the usual box for the highly regarded musician.

Opening with 'Magical', an indie-pop ballad, the album varies between slow layered harmonies and more upbeat dance tunes, with a good selection of typical Sheeran earworms. 'England' brings heartfelt patriotic vibes from the artists, with 'Blue' adding fantastic falsetto into the mix. 'Head > Heels' is a sickly-sweet album closer, with deeply heartwarming lyrics to boot.

A personal favourite, 'Midnight' combines the artist's flair for guitar with interesting drums beats and production making for something different from the release.

Standouts from the 14-track collectio include: 'Punchline', 'Page', 'Head > Heels', 'That's On Me', and the aforementioned 'Midnight'.

A tad more variety wouldn't have gone a-miss, but overall, it's a decent offering from the hugely popular singer, adding another feather to his musical cap.

7/10
Listen:' Midnight'