Just a mere four months after the release of his sixth studio album, “Subtract,” Ed Sheeran is showing no signs of slowing down. The musical sensation announced on Thursday (Aug. 24) that he’s gearing up to drop yet another album, titled “Autumn Variations,” produced by Aaron Dessner. The album is set to be released through his own label, Gingerbread Man Records, on September 29. This release comes hot on the heels of his Mathematics World Tour, with the North American leg concluding on September 23 at the Sofi Stadium in Los Angeles.

 

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As the leaves begin to change and the air takes on a crisp chill, Sheeran’s “Autumn Variations” aims to capture the essence of the season’s transitions. Reflecting on the inspiration behind the album, Sheeran shared,

“Last autumn, I found that my friends and I were going through so many life changes. After the heat of the summer, everything either calmed, settled, fell apart, came to a head, or imploded.”

His introspective approach led him to pen tracks that encapsulate the highs and lows of emotions, relationships, and personal struggles. Through songwriting, Sheeran navigates themes of love, heartbreak, new friendships, and the challenges that life often presents.

Sheeran’s creative process was deeply influenced by his discovery of a composer named Elgar and his Enigma Variations album. This compilation, comprised of 14 compositions each inspired by a different friend, resonated with Sheeran’s own experiences. “This is what inspired me to make this album,” he shared. Collaborating with Aaron Dessner, the duo embarked on a creative journey that resulted in “Autumn Variations.” Sheeran praised Dessner’s ability to capture the essence of autumn through his sonic choices, and he’s hopeful that listeners will connect with the album as profoundly as he does.

“Autumn Variations” follows the trajectory set by Sheeran’s previous album, “Subtract.” The latter debuted and peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 albums chart upon its release earlier this year, marking a successful continuation of Sheeran’s musical journey. The album’s chart-topping performance was accompanied by significant sales figures, revealing the artist’s enduring popularity and connection with his audience.

As we embrace the changing seasons, Ed Sheeran’s “Autumn Variations” promises to be a musical companion that mirrors the nuanced emotions and transitions of this time of year. With his characteristic sincerity and skillful songwriting, Sheeran is set to provide listeners with a soundtrack for introspection and contemplation, perfectly aligned with the spirit of fall.