It was quite a music-filled Friday the 13th with Justin Bieber’s “Purpose” and One Direction’s “Made in the A.M.” released on the same day. Both artists teased fans with early releases of songs prior to their album debut, but the question is: Who did it better?

“Purpose”

“Purpose” is Bieber’s first album since his 2014 release of “Journals,” and it shows the immense growth the 21-year-old continues to make as an artist.

The album begins with a sweet and beautifully written tribute, “Mark My Words,” to his longtime love, Selena Gomez. This song is particularly shorter than the rest of the ones within the album.

“Company” is the sixth song on the album and has a more sensual sound. This song is very easy-going, as it invites all kinds of people (other than couples) to listen to it.

“Purpose” definitely did not disappoint me. The song teasers, social media promotions, and album trailer were all worth the wait.

“All In It,” the album’s 18th track, is another one of my favorites because, like “Get Used To It,” it’s a happier song. The cheerful guitars mash well with his voice.

“Made in the A.M.”

“Made in the A.M.” by One Direction also debuted at midnight. It was a little harder for me to track its album because the boy band didn’t release as much promotional material as Bieber did; however, the 17-track album wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.

A song I particularly enjoyed is “Never Enough.” The song begins with a ‘50s-style doo-wop, accompanied with sharp snaps and claps. This is one of the most romantic songs on the album.

“Wolves” took me by surprise because it was unlike anything I’ve heard from the band before. Its energy is contagious and makes me want to keep listening.

Despite the band’s admirable enthusiasm, “Made in the A.M.” includes heartfelt, slow ballads, which young adults and teenagers can always relate to.

The Verdict

While two of the biggest names in the music industry at this day in age — Justin Bieber and One Directon — both dropped albums on what is supposed to be an unlucky day, comparing the two groups was hard for me, but I picked Justin Bieber.

The singles, album teaser, etc. were all worth the wait and did not disappoint me. One Direction’s “Made In The A.M.” was good too — just not as pleasing to me as Beiber’s album.