Description
Ed Sheeran – Subtract – White Vinyl Record
Ed Sheeran’s Subtract (stylized as –, 2023) is the fifth studio album from the British singer-songwriter and the final entry in his series of albums named after mathematical symbols (+, x, ÷, =, and –). This album marks a departure from the upbeat, pop-centric sound that characterized his previous records, opting instead for a more stripped-down, introspective acoustic style. Subtract reflects a period of personal turmoil and emotional vulnerability in Sheeran’s life, dealing with themes of grief, loss, mental health struggles, and healing.
The album’s raw, acoustic focus brings Sheeran back to his folk roots, showcasing his songwriting in a more intimate, confessional light, and reconnecting with the sound that first made him a household name.
Unlike the pop-driven beats and polished production of his previous albums, Subtract features a more minimalist, acoustic approach. The songs primarily revolve around Sheeran’s gentle guitar playing and heartfelt vocals, with the arrangements staying relatively simple to let the lyrics and emotions take center stage. Subtract draws heavily from folk and traditional singer-songwriter styles. The album harks back to Sheeran’s earlier acoustic work, before his rise to global pop stardom. This is evident in the softer, folk-leaning ballads that showcase his ability to tell stories through subtle, emotional songwriting.
The production on Subtract is more subdued compared to the bright, radio-friendly sounds of Sheeran’s previous albums. It features subtle arrangements with strings, piano, and ambient touches, but the overall feel is one of intimacy, with the spotlight on Sheeran’s vocals and acoustic guitar.
Key Tracks
“Eyes Closed”: One of the album’s lead singles, “Eyes Closed” combines Sheeran’s signature pop-folk style with melancholic lyrics about grief and losing someone close. The song’s catchy melody is paired with somber emotions, representing the album’s balance of introspection and accessibility.
“Boat”: A deeply emotional track that opens the album, “Boat” is a song about resilience and staying afloat in the face of emotional hardship. The lyrics reflect on Sheeran’s struggles with mental health, and the simple acoustic arrangement complements the rawness of the song.
“Life Goes On”: This track deals with the passage of time and the inevitability of life moving forward despite personal loss. It’s one of the more bittersweet songs on the album, with a hopeful undercurrent that life continues even in the face of grief.
“End of Youth”: In this song, Sheeran reflects on the loss of innocence and the emotional weight that comes with adulthood. With themes of growing older and facing hard truths, the track resonates with listeners who have experienced similar life transitions.
“The Hills of Aberfeldy”: A hauntingly beautiful song that closes the album, this track leans into Sheeran’s folk influences. Named after a region in Scotland, the song’s lush acoustic arrangement and poetic lyrics make it a fitting and introspective closer for the album.
A central theme throughout Subtract is Sheeran’s personal experiences with grief and loss, particularly surrounding the death of close friends and family members. Songs like “Eyes Closed” and “Life Goes On” grapple with the pain of losing loved ones, but also the process of finding a way to move forward. Sheeran has spoken openly about his mental health struggles during the creation of Subtract, and this vulnerability is reflected in the lyrics. Tracks like “Boat” and “End of Youth” discuss the emotional weight of anxiety, depression, and the struggle to stay hopeful in dark times. Despite the album’s focus on grief and emotional hardship, there is also a sense of resilience and healing in the music. Songs like “Boat” carry messages of perseverance, and the album’s overall tone reflects the idea of finding peace and acceptance amidst life’s challenges.
The acoustic guitar is at the heart of Subtract, with Sheeran’s fingerpicking and strumming providing the foundation for most of the tracks. His vocal performances are intimate and heartfelt, often carrying the weight of the album’s emotional themes. Sheeran’s voice is warm and emotive, bringing authenticity to the more confessional lyrics. While the album is primarily acoustic, there are moments of subtle orchestration, including strings and piano, that add depth to the arrangements. These flourishes are used sparingly, ensuring that the focus remains on Sheeran’s voice and guitar, but they enhance the emotional resonance of certain songs. Sheeran occasionally uses vocal harmonies and layered backing vocals to create a fuller, more textured sound. These harmonies add a touch of warmth to the otherwise sparse arrangements, enriching the overall atmosphere without overwhelming the songs.
Subtract represents a notable shift in Ed Sheeran’s artistic trajectory, moving away from the commercial pop anthems that have defined much of his career. The album has been praised for its vulnerability and emotional honesty, with critics highlighting Sheeran’s ability to connect with listeners on a more personal level. Fans who have followed him from his acoustic beginnings have especially welcomed this return to his roots.
Subtract received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its stripped-down sound and introspective songwriting. Many saw it as a refreshing change from the more polished, commercial pop of his previous albums, although some noted that its quieter, more introspective nature might not appeal to those expecting the upbeat hits Sheeran is known for. With Sheeran openly discussing the personal struggles that influenced Subtract, the album has contributed to conversations around mental health. His willingness to share his own experiences with grief, anxiety, and depression has resonated with listeners going through similar hardships, making the album a source of comfort and understanding for many.
Subtract by Ed Sheeran is a deeply personal and introspective album, marking a significant departure from the commercial pop success of his previous records. With its stripped-down acoustic sound and emotionally raw lyrics, the album explores themes of grief, mental health, and resilience. Subtract shows a more vulnerable side of Sheeran, reconnecting with his folk and singer-songwriter roots while offering a contemplative, intimate listening experience. The album has been embraced for its emotional honesty and heartfelt songwriting, standing as one of the most introspective and artistically daring projects of Sheeran’s career.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Boat
Salt Water
Eyes Closed
Life Goes on
Dusty
End of Youth
Colourblind
Curtains
Borderline
Spark
Vega
Sycamore
No Strings
The Hills Of Aberfeldy
