CD Reviews: Ed Sheeran

With sensitive singer-songwriter blokes a dime a dozen, Ed Sheeran's debut + effortlessly connected rap attitude, heartfelt vulnerability and unvarnished storytelling, resulting in a release as bold and colourful as his hair.

For sophomore effort x, Sheeran's dexterous wordplay and keen melodic knack are again to the fore, with assistance from producers Pharrell Williams and Rick Rubin.

The Pharrell-helmed lead single Sing sees him shed his easy-going troubadour image for a slab of contrived Justin Timberlake-inspired R&B; yet he's most convincing channelling blue-eyed soul on Don't, and through Bloodstream's gospel-tinged evocation of one-too-many.