On December 12th, 2016, exactly one year after his hiatus announcement, Ed Sheeran finally reappeared on our social media feeds, posting a single, blue square. And from that moment on, we all knew the legend of acoustic folksy rap was back, and that something special was coming.

Following "+" (Plus) and "X" (Multiply), the algorithm continues with Divide--Ed's third full length album. Divide is a work of art with 16 perfectly crafted tracks, and Ed is an artist who can tell a story like no other, transitioning from personal insecurities, to childhood nostalgia, to reminders of lost love.

With a beautiful assortment of styles, verses, and melodies, the album kicks off with him spitting verses on "Eraser," a tune that no doubt takes us back to the roots of Ed's music. Detailing the drawbacks of fame and fortune, he sings "I chased the picture perfect life, I think they painted it wrong, I think that money is the route of all evil, and fame is hell."

In a recent interview, Ed claimed he had written a song even better than "Thinking Out Loud," and I think I'd have to agree. So if you thought that was your wedding song, you'll change your mind after listening to "Perfect."

And with finding love, there also comes losing it. Ed takes this to a whole other level with his song, "Happier," that has heart-wrenching lyrics like "But if he breaks your heart like lovers do, just know that I’ll be waiting here for you."

Aside from the emotional ballads, Divide also offers delightful Irish trad tunes like "Galway Girl" and "Nancy Mulligan," with the infectiously catchy line in "Galway Girl"--"She played the fiddle in an Irish band but she fell in love with an English man."

A truly exceptional album has the ability to a) take sadness and turn it into beauty, and b) meld together lyrics and melodies that take you on whirlwind of emotions, and Divide is a clear representation of Ed's ability to do all of the above.

Needless to say, Ed develops new sounds in this album while also staying true to his roots. I'd highly recommend you give Divide a listen, because the quirky guy with a penchant for strumming his guitar and hitting that loop pedal is back, and better than ever.

Personal favorites:

"Galway Girl"

"What Do I Know?"

"Dive"

"New Man"

"Bibia Be Ye Ye"

"To my fans, the 3rd album is on its way and is the best thing I have made thus far."

Yes Ed, yes.