By Amanda Allen ’16

“Purpose” allows fans to take Justin Bieber seriously. Surprisingly to most, Bieber’s newest album, “Purpose,” released at number one on November 13. Bieber’s album also received four out of five stars from Billboard and has garnered mostly praise from music critics.

A couple months ago, no one would have guessed a Bieber comeback album would be a success. After running into trouble with the law and having public meltdowns, the child star gone wrong has claimed that he has learned from his mistakes. Bieber’s PR people have been mostly successful in recreating his image as grown up. This album is a successful apology to the public for his poor behavior.

Since the beginning of the summer, Bieber has teased listeners with catchy, upbeat electronic tunes that show his growth musically since his absence. The collaboration with Jack Ü on “Where Are U Now” was the first smash hit signifying his comeback that is winning over many non-beliebers. The singer also received his first number one on the Billboard Hot 100 with this second beachy single entitled, “What Do You Mean?”

“Purpose,” his second R&B record after 2013’s “Journals,” has an electronic and hip-hop vibe to it along with his smooth vocals. Bieber starts off with the calm and compelling “Mark My Words,” with whiny background vocals that are overridden by his spot-on presence in the song. He hints at his spiritual side throughout the album by mentioning, “only God can judge me,” while asking for forgiveness in the soft “Life is Worth Living”. His allusions to God may seem a bit repetitive at times, but listeners will view his apology as sincere.

Bieber collaborated with many artists on “Purpose,” including Big Sean and Travis Scott. “The Feeling,” featuring Halsey is a catchy, soul-searching tune similar to his previous singles from the album. Bieber slowed things down on the track co-written by Ed Sheeran entitled “Love Yourself,” which has an acoustic vibe and is the least electronic of all the songs. His harsh lyrics, “My Momma don’t like you and she likes everyone,” may shock listeners with its unfiltered honesty. It is as if we are reading Bieber’s personal diary.

Although all the songs seem to have a similar theme, they succeed in sending a positive message. Many may avoid this album just because it has Bieber’s name on it, but “Purpose” proves that he has more to offer than scandalous headlines.