Play

Play starts a new sequence in Ed Sheeran's catalogue after the mathematical symbols of his earlier albums. Its title fits a record that moves between direct acoustic songwriting and bright, rhythm-led pop, with “Azizam” making that outward-looking approach especially clear.

The familiar voice and guitar remain easy to recognise even when the arrangements grow larger. “Old Phone” brings the focus back to memory and personal connection, offering a quieter counterweight to the record's danceable moments and keeping the changes in sound tied to individual songs.