One Direction and Justin Bieber both have released new albums, and there are some quite noticeable changes about both. One Direction came out with Made in the AM, their fifth album in five years. This is their first album after departure of Zayn Malik, and his absence is strikingly evident.

On the other hand, Bieber’s Purpose is a complete apology anthem—though none seem sincere. He still follows the age-old route that says do something stupid, apologize, ask for forgiveness, and repeat. The album is extremely flashy, and you just cannot ignore the new, artistic videos. And as far as the music and lyrics are considered, Justin shows major improvement. Justin has gone on record to say that some of the songs from his album are inspired by his ex-girlfriend, Selena Gomez.

On the other hand, Made in the AM will be One Direction’s last album before they go on a long hiatus. The album is breezy and nostalgic, but it fails to appeal to the masses. This latest album by One Direction is not just a group album but is more like a tape by the singers for their upcoming single careers. The song “A.M.” is very Mumford-style folk rock. “I Want to Write You a Song” is gentle and smooth. The bonus track “Walking in The Wind,” heavily resembles Paul Simon from the mid-70s. And, of course, there is the much talked-about song “Perfect,” which is supposedly inspired by Harry Style’s ex, Taylor Swift. But really, it seems more inspired by Swift’s song “Style.”

Some believe “A.M.” apparently stands for After Malik. After Malik’s exit, it looks like the remaining four members of the band are more than eager to get out. Though they are calling their upcoming split a “long hiatus,” N-Sync also called their break a “long hiatus,” and they never, ever got back together.

Justin Bieber’s attempt to look mature and well dignified has hit the perfect spot with his album Purpose. He appears all shades of apologetic, full of sorrow, and the Beliebers are definitely finding it appealing. The album has some phenomenal electro bangers as well as insufferable self-pity ballads, but the ballads, which could have easily turned into an array of sad songs, have been turned into party mixes by Skrillex.

Purpose as an album might be closest to capturing Justin’s real-life essence. It encapsulates Bieber’s frustration. The mild, mid-tempo “What do you Mean?” nails the emotion he has for girls who say yes even when they mean no. “I’ll Show You” captures the irk he has for people who don’t let him be him.

The track “Where Are You Now,” featuring Skrillex, is the most energetic track of the album. The song assures Justin’s rebirth in electro-pop. The reason Skrillex manages to get the best out of him is because he never tries to redeem Bieber. Also, the song “Love Yourself,” co-written by Ed Sheeran, is extremely interesting.

Honestly, when comparing the two albums thoroughly, Justin seems to win against the group. As One Direction fades out, Bieber is coming back on the scene after his long hiatus, and he is definitely here to stay.