Analysing Music Magazines

Ed Sheeran Concert Review

 Ed Sheeran Concert Review (14th October 2012)

Ed Sheeran’s concert contained most of the hits from his phenomenal album +. In such an intimate venue, (Hammersmith Apollo) Ed was able to interact with his fans portraying his down to earth personality that could only make his fans love him even more. Audiences found themselves mesmerized at his unbelievable ability to play the guitar and flawless voice; playing most of his more lyrical, slow, heart felt songs, which allowed the audience to really to appreciate his ability to translate a story through each and every one of his songs. With such a mixture of people from young children to full grown adults, some may have been worried that he would have had a hard job of pleasing everybody but I can happily say that everybody left the Apollo with nothing but a smile on their face. The only expectation that hadn't been exceeded for me personally was that no covers of other songs were performed now was his old tracks from previous and although Ed himself repeatedly requested, the crowd refused to be silent during the more quiet and poignant songs which in some ways ruined the beauty of the songs. However, overall a really enjoyable night, and an experience I’m sure, will remember forever.

+ Album Review

+                                                                                                                                         Album review

★★★★ 

Lines between genres have never been more blurred than right now, Ed Sheeran's debut album '+' is a classic mix of meaningful lyrics, R&B styling's, hip-hop influenced delivery and heart churning love songs. An album that speaks to the younger generation, tackling issues such as drugs and relationships.

The opening track, The A Team, is filled with heart-breaking lyrical content, a moving, poetic lyric about a teenage beauty that turns to prostitution.

Two songs, which display Ed Sheeran at his best, are Small Bump and U.N.I, which reveal the amazing talent of the artist because of his use of acoustic guitar. Small Bump is a beautifully written and well-executed song, which one can't help but be overcome with emotion. U.N.I is one of the albums love songs, the hip-hop delivery of the lyrics, balanced nicely with soft singing within the chorus.

The versatility of the album is revealed through the song You Need Me, I Don't Need You, as the audience are enlightened with an R&B track. A track mostly aimed at Sheeran's old manager, the industry and pretty much anyone who has a problem with him.

Tracks such as 'This', 'The City' and 'Lego House' the listener is treated to a complete emotional rollercoaster. From the heart breaking self-realisation of 'This', again using the acoustic guitar, offering a slow pace and melancholy tone. 'The City' which introduces some 'beat boxing' about harsh truths of living in London. This track has some, in my opinion, bizarre musical arrangement. 'Lego House' then takes a complete U-turn throwing in the previous mentioned hip-hop style delivery of the lyrics intertwined with a passionate chorus voicing some strong opinions.

Finally we come to the end of the album with 'Kiss me' and 'Give me love', beautifully written songs with powerful and highly emotive personal messages.

The '+' album is thought provoking, emotional and raw, knowing exactly what buttons to push and heart strings to pull.

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Mylo Xyloto Album Review

Mylo Xyloto                                                                                Album review

After a momentous three year wait, Coldplay's follow up of 2008's biggest-selling album: Mylo Xyloto automatically attracts Coldplay’s most obstinate fans. 

The album represents the band’s first attempt at a concept album. Fans of both old and new Coldplay will be pleased, as the album incorporates just as many intimate acoustic moments as it does electro-rock synths.

The record’s title track serves as a short, instrumental introduction to “Hurts Like Heaven,” the first full-length song on the album.  it presents an upbeat, drum-driven number that showcases the talents of Jonny Buckland (guitarist). Following the hugely successful “Paradise” comes the album’s high point; undoubtedly one of Coldplay’s finest songs to date “Charlie Brown.”

Also not to be missed are “Us Against the World” and “Up in Flames.” The former features a rarely heard duet with lead singer Chris Martin and drummer Will Champion, heavily reminiscent of “Fix You” (X & Y). This satisfying blend of old and new sounds makes for an album that is surprisingly cohesive considering the standout singles it contains.

“Princess of China,” which precedes “Up in Flames,” has proved to be the most memorizing song in all of Coldplay’s works. The song features world-famous pop artist Rihanna. The single takes them in a completely new direction. It is a perfect representation of Coldplay’s new and fresh sound.

For an older band, Coldplay has demonstrated a remarkable ability to keep its music current and fresh—Mylo Xyloto is no exception. However, f the album’s title could be of possible pronunciation then that would have guaranteed absolute chart success.