After a year-long hiatus on social media, Ed Sheeran finally returned, releasing two singles off his next album “÷”. The album stylized with the division symbol, called Divide, is expected to be released on March 3.

Sheeran released two singles from his upcoming album, “Castle on the Hill” and “Shape of you, on January 7th.

As always, both of Sheeran’s songs are beautiful. In “Castle on the Hill”, Sheeran creates a feeling of nostalgia for childhood with just his tone of voice. Lines such as, “found my heart and broke it here” which would sound dramatic for any other singer instead sound heartfelt with Sheeran’s singing. By tastefully combining dramatics with a hint of soul, Sheeran creates a song which is sure to be a hit.

The second single, “Shape of You”, is slightly different from his other songs. Once intended for Rihanna, Sheeran later decided to keep the song for himself. Faster and more up-beat, the songs differs from the guitar heavy tunes which Sheeran usually releases. Instead of describing childhood, the song pairs a quick beat with a story of a romance that is just beginning. Although different, “Shape of You” is just as good. It showcases a different Sheeran, one who is able to move away from his guitar and still create songs that everyone wants to sing along to.

Whether you are a fan of Ed Sheeran or someone who has never liked his music, these are not songs you want to miss. Sheeran’s music just keeps getting better and the rest of his album is sure to be just as good.

Click here to listen:

“Shape of You”

“Castle on the Hill”