Ed Sheeran's cross-cultural album Play: Can the pop star reclaim his crown?

Ed Sheeran is back with his eighth album, facing pressure after his last two records, Subtract and Autumn Variations, did not meet commercial expectations. The subdued and introspective nature of these albums, which delved into personal topics like death and illness, left Sheeran with something to prove. His new record, Play, starts off with an opening track that reflects a sense of uncertainty in his career. This blunt admission from a highly successful artist raises the question of what Sheeran will sing about when his most personal songs are rejected by audiences.

The album Play is a response to what Sheeran calls “the darkest period of my life.” Aiming to create joy and explore different cultures, Sheeran incorporates Asian and Middle Eastern influences into the music. Through 13 songs, he touches on themes of escape, love, and devotion, utilizing instruments like the sitar, tabla, santoor, and kanjira. The album’s standout track, Sapphire, features a duet with Indian superstar Arjit Singh, blending English, Hindi, and Punjabi languages over a captivating beat.

Despite his efforts to infuse diverse cultural elements into his music, some tracks on Play fall back on conventional pop song structures. Sheeran’s incorporation of Bollywood strings and Asian rhythms sometimes feel superficial, lacking the depth found in classic songs that meld Western and Eastern musical traditions. While Play caters to a broad audience and has seen success on streaming playlists, there is a missed opportunity for Sheeran to fully embrace more adventurous and raw musical directions showcased in songs like Don’t Look Down.

Sheeran’s talent in crafting catchy tunes is undeniable, appealing to a vast audience of millions of fans. Play may not satisfy those seeking more substantial and exploratory music, but it highlights the potential that Sheeran could reach if he were to break away from the constraints of streaming algorithms. The album serves as a reminder of the artist’s capabilities and leaves listeners curious about what Sheeran could achieve by pushing the boundaries of his sound further

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