No. 6

Ed Sheeran's latest offering, No.6 Collaborations Project, is a chaotic whirlwind of featured artists, genres, and, unfortunately, missed opportunities. Sheeran, known for his catchy pop tunes, steps outside his comfort zone by collaborating with a wide range of musicians, from hip-hop heavyweights like Eminem and 50 Cent to pop princesses like Camila Cabello and Cardi B. The album kicks off with the infectious beat of "Beautiful People" featuring Khalid, setting the tone for what should be a wild ride. However, as the album progresses, it becomes clear that Sheeran may have bitten off more than he can chew. Songs like "South of the Border" with Camila Cabello and Cardi B feel forced and lack the chemistry needed to make them memorable. Despite its flaws, No.6 Collaborations Project does have some standout tracks. The haunting ballad "Best Part of Me" featuring YEBBA showcases Sheeran's raw vocals, while "Cross Me" featuring Chance the Rapper and PnB Rock delivers a killer hook that will have you hitting repeat. In the end, No.6 Collaborations Project is a mixed bag. While Sheeran should be applauded for his willingness to experiment, the execution falls short of expectations. But hey, at least it's better than another acoustic guitar ballad, right?