Exploring Ed Sheeran’s “Play”: A Journey Through Familiar Themes and New Sounds

Mining the Past for Inspiration

Ed Sheeran’s latest album, “Play,” ventures into familiar territory as he seeks inspiration from the past. In tracks like “Camera,” he revisits the classic love clichés reminiscent of his One Direction co-write “Little Things,” affirming beauty in flaws with lines like, “You think that you don’t have beauty-in-abundance but you do/That’s the truth.” He also cleverly inverts the premise of his past hit “Photograph,” proclaiming, “I don’t need a camera to capture this moment/I’ll remember how you look tonight for all my life.” Yet, one can’t help but note the echoes of Eric Clapton’s timeless classic “Wonderful Tonight” in his attempts.

Familiar Patterns and Missed Opportunities

The album features some tracks that seem to recycle elements from Sheeran’s previous successes. “In Other Words” serves as an unworthy successor to “Perfect,” while “The Vow” attempts to capture the essence of “Thinking Out Loud.” Additionally, “A Little More” stands out as a vintage breakup track, albeit excessively bitter. Lines like, “I can’t call you crazy/’Cause you could be diagnosed,” highlight Sheeran’s ongoing struggle with empathy towards his exes while hinting at his inability to deliver a successful joke.

Dynamic Collaborations and Cultural Influences

Despite the album’s shortcomings, there are standout tracks that showcase Sheeran’s dynamism when drawing from diverse musical traditions. “Azizam,” named after the Persian word for “my darling,” emerges as his catchiest song since “Shape of You,” thanks to its infectious hook and Ilya’s integration of traditional Iranian instruments. Collaborations like “Sapphire,” featuring Punjabi superstar Arijit Singh, and “Symmetry,” driven by a lively tabla rhythm, showcase Sheeran’s enthusiasm. Even if these tracks come off as heavy-handed, his passion shines through, reminiscent of the energy that made “South of the Border” work despite its cringe factor. The inclusion of Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan in the “Sapphire” video could further elevate its appeal.

Escapism Amidst Societal Challenges

While these vibrant tracks offer a refreshing change, they are juxtaposed against a backdrop of societal turmoil. Sheeran’s collaborations with Indian and Iranian artists come just a day before a significant anti-immigrant protest in London, highlighting the stark contrast between the escapist nature of his music and the harsh realities of the world. Sheeran’s apolitical stance, as he described himself in 2017, raises questions about the relevance of his commerce-driven, “Choose Love” mentality in today’s climate.

Concluding Thoughts on “Heaven” and the Album’s Essence

The album concludes with “Heaven,” arguably one of its strongest tracks, encapsulating both its strengths and weaknesses. While it weaves in a narrative of Sheeran’s ongoing copyright battles, the song bears a striking resemblance to hits like Jason Mraz’s “I’m Yours” and Charli XCX’s “Everything Is Romantic.” Its catchy ghatam-led groove and generic lyrics manage to find a middle ground between innovation and cliché, although some listeners may find the repetition of familiar imagery tiresome, especially with lines like “Chemicals bursting, exploding/As every second’s unfolding.” This duality leaves listeners questioning whether Sheeran has truly evolved or if he remains trapped in a cycle of repetition.

Conclusion

Overall, “Play” serves as a complex tapestry of Ed Sheeran’s musical journey, oscillating between nostalgia, cultural influences, and societal reflections. While some tracks may fall flat, others shine brightly, revealing an artist grappling with his identity and the world around him. As fans and critics alike dissect this latest offering, it remains to be seen whether Sheeran can break free from the confines of his past and explore new creative horizons.

FAQs

What are the standout tracks on Ed Sheeran’s “Play”?

Standout tracks include “Azizam,” “Sapphire,” and “Heaven,” which showcase Sheeran’s energetic collaborations and musical evolution.

Does “Play” reflect Ed Sheeran’s growth as an artist?

The album presents a mix of familiar themes and new influences, suggesting a struggle between nostalgia and innovation in Sheeran’s artistry.

How does “Play” address societal issues?

Sheeran’s collaborations with Indian and Iranian artists juxtapose escapist themes against a backdrop of societal challenges, particularly in light of recent political events.

Are there any criticisms of Sheeran’s lyrical content in “Play”?

Some critics note that certain lyrics lack depth and originality, often recycling familiar clichés and failing to deliver impactful messages.